SILICON VALLEY LINK:THE IRISH Technology Leadership Group has consistently been to the forefront of Ireland's economic recovery, Taoiseach Brian Cowen said on his arrival in California to open the Irish Innovation Centre in San José, California, last night.
Chaired by former Intel chief executive Craig Barrett, the ITLG comprises senior Silicon Valley technology executives who set up the centre to help Irish high-tech “start-ups” do business in the US.
In a speech prepared for delivery in California, Mr Cowen said: “The positive example of their innovation partnership with UCD and TCD, which matches high-achieving Irish students with Silicon Valley executives shows just how they are meeting our challenges practically and head on.”
“With this programme the ITLG is assisting Ireland in achieving our goal. Further, what the ITLG provide is what start-up companies and entrepreneurs most need, a network and introduction to enable them to pitch their product to the right people. An endorsement from key global players such as Craig Barrett is crucial to business success. There are thousands from all over the globe competing for these opportunities.
“However, with the Irish Technology Leadership Group and this Innovation Centre, Ireland can and will remain ahead of this competition. ” More than $300,000 has been awarded to the ITLG by the Irish Abroad Unit.
