On behalf of Valleys Innovation Council, thank you for the recent editorial series published Dec. 15-17, highlighting the “Startup Ecosystem Rankings Report 2019.” Having a vibrant startup ecosystem has become a critical component of regional economic development strategy within the U.S. and around the globe, complementing traditional economic development efforts. Enhancing and sustaining a supportive ecosystem for technology startups within Region 2 of Virginia is a primary mission of Valleys Innovation Council.

Achieving a strong startup ecosystem in our region is akin to the existential question posed by Shakespeare’s Hamlet: “To be or not to be, that is the question.” “To be” a regional technology hub of excellence, the region must act intentionally and cohesively to leverage its translational research capacity, build an entrepreneurial culture supportive of founders and innovators, improve access to capital and develop and attract a skilled managerial and technical workforce.