ANNAPOLIS, Md. -- The Chesapeake Innovation Center (CIC) has opened in Annapolis, Maryland as the nation's first homeland security business incubator. The CIC is focused on growing firms specializing in the development of homeland security technology, and has formed partnerships with the National Security Agency, Nokia/Innovent, ARINC, Piper Rudnick Law Firm, Johns Hopkins University, and the University of Maryland to achieve its mission.

The CIC will serve as a "gateway," transferring technology between the public and private sectors and creating new opportunities for the development of exciting technologies in homeland security. It will house 20-25 start-up companies and serve as a hub for technology commercialization of early-stage ventures in the security/defense, communications and information technology sectors. Using a proven model of incubation created by Business Cluster Development, the CIC will provide business start-up services, investment networks and flexible facilities to accelerate the growth of early-stage ventures and increase their likelihood for success. Nokia/Innovent and Lighthouse Communication Services are the first client companies to locate at the CIC.

The National Security Agency and Nokia/Innovent have signed Memorandum's of Understanding as founding partners with the CIC. The partnerships will create awareness of emerging technologies, assist with the transfer and commercialization of technology from public and private sectors and stimulate the establishment of new businesses. Under the agreement, Nokia/Innovent will establish its east coast offices at the CIC and serve as a conduit between emerging homeland security activity and Nokia resources. NSA will collaborate with CIC on the commercialization of homeland security-based technology, as well as on the introduction of emerging technology into NSA.

The Information Security Institute at Johns Hopkins University and the University of Maryland have joined other state and local sponsors to form the strong business and technical advisory group necessary to accelerate the growth of the CIC start-ups. ARINC and Piper Rudnick are founding sponsors providing funds for the CIC.

The CIC is an initiative of Anne Arundel County, Maryland, with the Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation serving as the lead agency. Janet S. Owens, County Executive for Anne Arundel County, said, "Developing innovative solutions to defending our homeland is a priority at the CIC. Anne Arundel County's proximity to our nation's capital and the National Security Agency perfectly positions it with resources and strategic connections to spur business growth in the homeland security sector."

Entrepreneurs starting technology companies focused in homeland security are encouraged to apply to join the CIC. For additional information, visit http://www.cic-tech.org or call Bill Badger, President and CEO, Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation, at 410/222-7410.

Chesapeake Innovation Center (CIC)