Cluster Science

Image from Harshil.Shah: http://www.flickr.com/photos/harshilshah/2110929571/sizes/l/in/photostream/

In terms of economic development, Los Angeles has a lot of elements working in its favor. So why isn’t L.A. doing as well as its counterparts when it comes to building new, viable industry clusters? The area’s emerging biomedical, technology, and clean technology sectors may provide some teachable moments for a region that’s still sorting out how to attract and retain business.

Advertisements

Case Study #1: Biomedical Sector

Image from Alfred Hermida: http://www.flickr.com/photos/hermida/366713331/sizes/o/in/photostream/

Los Angeles’ biomedical sector ranks fourth nationally, behind Boston, New York, and the Bay Area. It would seem that the region could do better, given its assets.

How California’s Clean Tech Ecosystem is Coming Together

Image from the Danish Wind Industry Association: http://www.flickr.com/photos/45030669@N02/4136599974/

California is the nation’s undisputed leader in clean-tech investment and innovation. The state attracts about $2.8 billion in clean-tech venture capital, amounting to 57 percent of the $4.9 billion invested nationally. All of this is encouraging news for a nascent sector trying to establish itself in a weak economy.