Leaders aim to promote region to high-tech firms

WESTBROOK, Conn. – Political leaders in New England and eastern Canada on Tuesday pledged to join forces in promoting the region as a center for information technology businesses.

Governors from the six New England states and five Canadian provinces wrapped up their 26th annual conference with their endorsement of resolution calling for greater commitments to the region’s informational technology work force.

Connecticut Gov. John G. Rowland, co-chairman of the conference, said the states and provinces would market rural and urban areas to high-tech computer, electronics, e-commerce and communications businesses.

“This resolution is basically to say, ‘Hey, take a look at us. We have a lot to offer,”‘ Rowland said.

Rowland said the region offers a good quality of life, a well-trained and educated work force, and broadband access.

The Northeast also may compete more aggressively with high-tech – and electricity-starved – California as an alternative to Silicon Valley.

“California starts to eliminate itself because of its energy problems,” Rowland said. “If we start to create that presence, then we can be that gateway.”

Maine Gov. Angus King said, “If we work regionally, I think we have a heck of a better chance.”

King said rural states such as Maine can benefit from an information technology boost as much as states with urban hubs such as Boston because information technology jobs allow workers to operate out of their homes or anywhere else.