Technology Innovation in Challenging Economy Subject of Chamber Keynote by Microsoft CEO

Despite a struggling economy, companies must continuously find ways to develop a competitive advantage, which often means doing so through innovation.

But that becomes more difficult during a tough economy as money tightens and jobs vanish.

The role of innovation and technology in a challenging economy is the highlight of an upcoming keynote address by Steve Ballmer, chief executive officer of Microsoft, during the Dallas Regional Chamber’s 9th Annual State of Technology Luncheon and Innovation Showcase on May 7.

“As a preeminent hub for innovation, entrepreneurism and technology, the greater Dallas region and the technology community are eager to hear Steve Ballmer’s expert insights,” said John Dupree, 2009 Chairman of the Chamber’s Technology Business Council. Dupree is also vice president for enterprise & federal government for Sprint.

The Dallas region’s technology workforce remains strong with 228,000 employees, which is more than Austin and Houston combined. This accounts for 8 percent of the overall workforce in the Dallas/Fort Worth region.

“Ballmer’s unique perspective will provide us invaluable tools with which to transform the region into an even stronger business growth engine,” Dupree said.

One technology sector seeing a significant boost in innovative technologies and job creation is the sustainable technologies sector. According to a report conducted by Global Insight, nearly 9,000 green jobs are located in the greater Dallas region, which is the second largest amount in Texas.

“The sustainable technology sector is a growing contributor to the Dallas/Fort Worth region’s local technology workforce and economy,” said Alan Ash, Systems Application Leader, Trane Commercial Systems and Vice Chair, Dallas Regional Chamber’s Sustainable Technologies Committee. “Sustainable technologies also contribute to generating savings in energy costs to consumers and businesses, fostering economic development and positively impacting our environment.”

Blending informative with enthusiastic, Ballmer’s presentation is expected to draw a crowd of more than 800 leaders from the region. The State of Technology Luncheon will mark his first time to address a public audience in the North Texas area.

To compliment Ballmer’s spirited keynote address is an exhibit hall of nearly 40 companies’ cutting-edge products and services with hands-on exhibits will be featured during the Innovation Showcase.

“These companies’ exhibit booths always accentuate the keynote address, and this year will be no exception,” said Dupree. Past exhibitors have included Sprint, Microsoft, the Museum of Nature and Science, Texas Segway, Verizon Wireless and many others.

A green corner section of the exhibit hall will also highlight sustainable technologies in the region.

Hosted by the Chamber’s Technology Business Council, the 9th Annual State of Technology Luncheon and Innovation Showcase will be held May 7 at the Dallas Convention Center, Exhibit Hall B, 650 S. Griffin Street, Dallas. The exhibit hall is open from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and the luncheon begins at noon.

Luncheon tickets are $90 for Chamber members and $140 for general admission. Luncheon tables and exhibit sponsorships are also available.

For more information on the 9th Annual State of Technology Luncheon and Innovation Showcase, visit www.DallasTBC.org or call Kathryn McNeill at 214-712-1951.

The Technology Business Council’s mission is to develop, promote and sustain the greater Dallas region as a global leader in technology talent, innovation, integration and manufacturing.