Kim Hogh brings the excitement of science and technology to the Research Triangle Park, NC, USA

I have been on several exciting adventures this year. One included attending the International Association of Science Parks (IASP 2009) conference at the Research Triangle Park in North Carolina, USA.

You may wonder, “What is a science park and what do they do?” Science and technology parks promote the economic development and competitiveness of regions and cities. Science and technology parks make the world a better place because they provide the infrastructure needed for the global knowledge economy. This includes:

• Creating new business opportunities and adding value to mature companies
• Supporting entrepreneurship as well as incubating innovative companies
• Generating knowledge based jobs
• Providing attractive new places for these emerging knowledge based workers
• Stimulating synergy between universities and companies

I had to good fortune to meet Kim Hogh, CEO of Scion DTU. It is one of Denmark’s largest university-based science parks.

He is gracious, generous, as well as quite brilliant. When I walked in I did not know anyone. He began by introducing me to the person who advises him and implements his vision, Gitte Skibstrup Nikolajsen. Kim Hogh introduced me to many of the organizers and the leaders of science parks from all around the world.

The energy in the room was incredible. It was a room full of the most committed people who are determined to make the world a better place by integrating the multiple disciplines of science, research, and business through the collaborative efforts of a network of science parks.

Scion DTU, in collaboration with Symbion Science Park, will host the IASP conference 2011 in Copenhagen. Since Copenhagen is noted as being one of the most innovative places in the world, it is a superb choice.

If you have an interest in science, business, technology, creativity, innovation or if you simply want to make the world a better place be sure to put IASP 2011 on your calendar.

I definitely have it on my calendar. I will see you in Copenhagen!