Innovation Agenda: A Commitment to Competitiveness to Keep America #1

The 110th Congress is passing legislation to implement the Democrats bold Innovation Agenda: A Commitment to Competitiveness to Keep America #1. With this Agenda, which I helped develop, Democrats are making a commitment to:

• Create a new generation of innovators: an educated, skilled workforce in the vital areas of science, math, engineering, and information technology
• Make a sustained federal research and development commitment that promotes private sector innovation
• Spur affordable access to broadband technology
• Achieve energy independence, strengthen our national security, and protect our planet by developing emerging technologies for clean and sustainable alternatives
• Provide small businesses with the tools to encourage entrepreneurial innovation and job creation throughout our economy

The talent, intellect, and entrepreneurial spirit of the American people have made this nation the leader in economic and technological advancements. House Democrats believe American leadership is fueled by national investments in an educated and skilled workforce, groundbreaking federal research and development by public and private sectors, and a steadfast commitment to being the most competitive and innovative nation in the world.

America ’s global leadership in technological advancement and innovation is being seriously challenged by other countries. The warning signs could not be clearer. The rest of the world is increasing its capacity, its investments, and its will to catch up with us. We cannot ignore this challenge. We must ensure that future generations of Americans have not only the math and science skills that will be needed to meet it, but also that we foster the creativeness and imagination that will help us to stay ahead. Americans again must innovate in order to create new thriving industries that will produce millions of good jobs here at home and a better future for our children.

Therefore, we are making the commitment now to ensure that America remains the world leader. Working with leaders from the high-technology, venture capital, academic, biotech and telecommunications sectors, we have identified and are committed to priorities that will guarantee our national security and prosperity, expand markets for American products, and assert economic leadership throughout the world.

More information on the Innovation Agenda is available here.