Rauner says new advisory council will spur innovation
Posted: 02/13/2015, 11:47am | Sun-Times Staff
Gov. Bruce Rauner with Howard A. Tullman of 1871 and Phyllis Lockett of LEAPinnovations at Friday's announcement of the Innovate Illinois Advisory Council. | Al Podgorski / Sun-Times Media
Gov. Bruce Rauner on Friday announced the creation of an advisory panel that he said would help the state’s economic growth and global reach.
The Innovate Illinois Advisory Council will be co-chaired by Laura Frerichs, director of the University of Illinois’ Research Park, and Mark Glennon, managing director of Ninth Street Advisors, Rauner said.
“It’s all about bringing together leaders who are from different backgrounds. Who can bring different perspectives — venture capital, business, research, universities, education, community leaders, corporate executives — everybody who can who has a stake in the success of the technology sector,” Rauner said at a news conference Friday morning at the Merchandise Mart.
“We want to get their ideas, we want to get their input, we want to get their collaboration,” Rauner told the crowd gathered at the 1871 tech business incubator at the Mart.
“What we don’t want is a lot of talk,” Rauner added.
“We don’t need more talk. We need results,” he said. “Real companies really succeeding. That’s what it’s all about.”