“We need to do more to continue to accelerate innovation and promote innovation everywhere,” Jim Klocke, chamber executive vice president, said. “(It’s) critical. We have a lot of talent around here, we have a lot of innovation.”
The new focus comes as the chamber searches for a leader to replace longtime president and chief executive Paul Guzzi, who announced his retirement in September.
John Fish, who was head of the search committee until he recently stepped down, has said the chamber is looking for someone who could strengthen its connection with innovation businesses.
In outlining its 2015 agenda, the chamber also is emphasizing increasing STEM education and improving entrepreneurial freedom for independent contractors — policies that weren’t a priority last year.
“Massachusetts should adopt the federal standard for independent contractors,” Klocke said.
“We’re going to see more people starting small business, we’re going to see more creativity and startups.”
The chamber and Boston-based startup incubator MassChallenge also have been working together to increase engagement with fledgling Hub businesses.
C.A. Webb, executive director of the New England Venture Capital Association, said the chamber’s agenda for the year represents a good step.
“It’s a comprehensive and thoughtful plan that reflects even more of an innovation orientation than last year’s agenda,” she said. “I’m really supportive of the agenda and look forward to collaborating with them.”
©2015 the Boston Herald
