ABSTRACT

Massachusetts has been responsible for innovations in science, industrial organization, art, medicine, education, and the law. Massachusetts ranks first among all states in high-technology employment growth, and it is determined to keep its lead. Massachusetts' economy was once dominated by traditional mill industries, led by textiles and then shoes. From World War II to the present, Massachusetts has been a steady receiver of maximum federal research funds. The success of the science and technology sector in Massachusetts is due in large measure to a rich history of partnerships between public and private institutions of higher learning, industry, and government. In Massachusetts, the numerous partnerships among government, industry, and academia have served to link strongly industry leaders and public decisionmakers. Unquestionably the most important decisionmaker in science and technology policy is private industry. Massachusetts offers a variety of programs that encourage science and technology development in accordance with state strategies.