Chamber Seeks ‘Strong, Unified’ Tech Voice

Lawrance says the council will serve companies throughout many industries.

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The Indiana Chamber of Commerce is beefing up its efforts to strengthen the Indiana tech sector’s voice on public policy issues. Mark Lawrance, who recently returned to the chamber as vice president of engagement and innovation policy, will lead the newly-created Indiana Technology & Innovation Council. Lawrance says the group will allow for a “big tent approach” to lobbying efforts on issues including capital formation, business climate and entrepreneurship.

The council will be made up of representatives from the Indiana Chamber and its member companies. It will include two committees. The Tech Policy Committee will focus on lobbying efforts, while the Program and Trends Committee will work with business organizations throughout Indiana to develop a statewide platform.

Chamber Chief Executive Officer Kevin Brinegar says the council "will allow technology leaders to have a strong, unified voice at the Indiana Statehouse and beyond." He says the effort also plays into the chamber’s Indiana Vision 2025 economic development plan, calling for the state to "be a global leader in innovation and economic opportunity where enterprises and citizens prosper."

Lawrance says the Indiana Technology & Innovation Council will begin holding open discussion events in July. In addition, the Chamber will feature a year-long series on innovation next year in its BizVoice magazine and through its electronic and social media.

Fishers-based CloudOne CEO John McDonald says the effort is crucial to ensure companies can continue to grow and attract talent. In a release, he said, "We encourage leaders throughout the state to partner with the Indiana Chamber to help make Indiana the absolute best place in the country for technology and innovation companies."