Records of the Kansas Technology Enterprise Corporation

Abstract: The majority of the records from the Kansas Technology Enterprise Corporation are concerned with various corporations and endeavors created to support Kansas technology, such as the Value Added Center and the Mid-America Manufacturing Technology Center. The collection also includes more general research and administrative materials related to technology and operating KTEC, such as budget files, subject files, and meeting minutes.

Administrative History: In the early- to mid-1980s, the Kansas economy was in a slump. The biggest industries -- aviation, oil & gas, and agriculture -- were suffering from economic setbacks. The Kansas Advanced Technology Commission (KATC) began operation in 1983 with two employees and a budget of $200,000. The KATC was created to assist with "high technology" projects.

In 1986, in response to continued statewide concern for the economy, a non-partisan group including the governor, legislators, university representatives, and individuals from the private sector extensively reviewed information and made recommendations for a new economic development strategy for Kansas. In 1987, the Kansas Technology Enterprise Corporation (KTEC) was established as a result of those recommendations.

KTEC assists Kansas entrepreneurs and technology companies by supporting the development and commercialization of new technologies through a statewide network designed and built to support researchers, entrepreneurs, and technology companies through each phase of the technology life cycle. The ultimate goal of the program is to create rapid growth companies and higher paying jobs.

[Kansas Technology Enterprise Corporation. "KTEC History" and "How KTEC Works." http://www.ktec.com/index_Flash.htm (accessed 10 November 2008).]