As advances in nanotechnology continue to bridge industry sectors and academic disciplines, MANA — the Mid-Atlantic Nanotechnology Alliance — is bridging state lines to foster nano-related discoveries and position the region for leadership in nanotechnology.
MANA — the nation's first multi-state nanotechnology initiative — is a unique collaborative effort among Ben Franklin Technology Partners, New Jersey Commission on Science and Technology and the Delaware Technology Park. Launched in the fall of 2004 with support from the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA), MANA is focused on developing strategic alliances among industry, academia and government.
"MANA will strengthen the collaborative networks emerging in our region and will also create a great environment for emerging nanotechnology enterprises," says RoseAnn B. Rosenthal, President and CEO of BFTP Southeast. "Our goal is to add many other promising new companies to our investment portfolio."
Nanotechnology is transforming our world, from everyday consumer items to remarkable advances in life-saving medical devices.
Currently, the partners in MANA are developing a strategic roadmap that will assess the tri-state region's competitive position to further the development and commercialization of nanotechnology. The roadmap encompasses an inventory and an assessment of the assets, top opportunities for strategic alliances, gaps that need to be addressed and activities in nanotechnology in our region with a focus on identifying specific areas of opportunity for further development of nanotechnology applications.
From the July/August 2005 issue
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