Indiana's new chief innovation officer to speak on state's $1 billion investment in entrepreneurship, innovation

Ian Steff, the newly appointed executive vice president and chief innovation officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, will provide an informational session on the state's $1 billion initiative to support innovation and entrepreneurial opportunities in Indiana.

The plan, spanning over the next 10 years, was announced by Gov. Mike Pence in July with the goal of incentivizing ingenuity and development statewide.

The informational session, which is open to faculty and staff, will be held 2-3 p.m. Aug. 31 at Stewart Center, Fowler Hall.

As executive vice president and chief innovative officer, Steff's first priority will be to inform innovators and entrepreneurs locally, nationally and globally that Indiana is committed to providing the resources necessary for sustaining current and future growth. One facet of the new initiative will support Indiana's universities by fostering research opportunities and supporting small businesses.

Steff previously served as the senior advisor for nanotechnology and advanced manufacturing for IEDC. He is currently serving on the Purdue's Engineering Advisory Council and on the Advisory Council for the vice chancellor for research at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis.  

Writer: Amy Schlueter, 765-496-7823, aschlue@purdue.edu