Global Alliance to Stimulate Region’s Economic Development
Photo by Jim Whitcraft, IPFW University Relations and Communications
Max Yen, Karl LaPan, Leehter Yao, IPFW Chancellor Michael Wartell; John Sampson, Paul Wang and a representative from the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Taiwan Chicago Office.Print-quality image
FORT WAYNE, Ind.—Indiana University–Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW) has successfully initiated the first Global Alliance for Technology Transfer and Entrepreneurship (GATTE). This partnership is the first of its kind and size to be established, allowing for the stimulation of economic development in northeast Indiana through the transfer and spin-off of technology developed through Taiwan’s university-based incubation centers.
IPFW Chancellor Michael Wartell and President Leehter Yao of National Taipei University of Technology signed a memorandum of understanding at a news conference this morning (Wednesday, September 28) along with faculty and community leaders from the Northeast Indiana Innovation Center, Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership, Alliance, Fort Wayne Chamber of Commerce and representatives from several universities in Taiwan.
Max Yen, dean of the College of Engineering, Technology and Computer Science (ETCS) at IPFW, spearheaded the creation of this alliance. He told the group of leaders that this partnership is vital to the economic development and economic well-being of citizens in both regions.
“This partnership will strengthen the collaboration among academia, industry, and government in both Taiwan and Indiana,” said Yen. “We look forward to the growth of this global partnership and the success of all GATTE members.”
The founding members of GATTE are beginning dialogue this week to develop organizational structure elements for members. The signing of this agreement coincides with the 1st Indiana–Taiwan Technology Transfer and Entrepreneurship Summit which takes place today through Friday at IPFW.
"This innovative agreement is a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs and existing companies in Northeast Indiana,” said John Sampson, president and CEO of the Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership. “We are delighted with the response of the Taiwanese universities to explore the potential for technology exchange between our countries."
Various universities from Taiwan and Indiana are showcasing technologies to local businesses, investors, and entrepreneurs in the hopes of developing lasting commercial partnerships. Founding GATTE members will be those who join during the technology summit this week; talks are underway to establish guidelines and responsibilities for the members involved.
“For a global partnership of this magnitude to develop is of the utmost importance to our economic ties in the region,” says Wartell. “This collaboration is the result of the hard work of all local economic development leaders and the faith and support that the universities and innovation centers in Taiwan have in northeast Indiana. This is a network that will continue to grow in size and scope.”
For more information on GATTE, contact Max Yen at 260-481-6839 or yens@ipfw.edu.