Officials in Louisiana, Rhode Island Tout Tech Hub Proposals

One is a proposed tech corridor focused on energy and environment in southeastern Louisiana and the other is being called a "knowledge district" meant to capitalize on the life sciences sector in Providence, but both have the same goal: growing high-tech industry sectors and creating high-wage jobs. Though the concept has been around for decades and is successful in many areas of the country, some states and regions are just now finding their niche and gaining support to establish tech hubs.

Officials from the University of Louisiana (UL) and business leaders unveiled this week a proposed Regional Innovation Corridor to be located in the southeastern part of the state. The area is home to scientists, engineers, state and federal agencies, UL, and other research groups, reports The Advertiser. Officials will focus on industry sectors that make the most sense for the region, including energy, environment, water management, and health care, the article states.

In the Northeastern part of the country, Rhode Island Gov. Lincoln Chafee recently toured the site of a proposed life sciences hub in Providence called Knowledge District. Spanning 19-acres, the area houses old industrial buildings being converted into research space for Brown University. The university purchased multiple buildings in the Old Jewelry District in recent years to become the anchor of the new district, reports The Associated Press. Legislation pending in the General Assembly will determine details on development of the land. Gov. Chafee said in the article that the life sciences hub is critical to the growth of the state and city economy.