Final Thoughts on FastTech 50 2006

by | Nov 16, 2006 | Community Circle, Tecknowledgy

One final word on the FastTech 50 event for 2006.

Robert Cresanti, the Under Secretary for Technology at the US Department of Commerce, was the surprise guest speaker. He commented about how impressed he is that Houston has an event the size and scope of the FastTech 50. He also said that Houston and Texas have done a great job in providing the right entrepreneurial environment that allows technology companies to sustain such growth.

One of the great success stories to come from the FastTech 50 winners is the success of Tanox, a three time FastTech 50 winner. Tanox, co-founded by Nancy Chang, was recently acquired by biotech giant Genentech for $919 million. The details of the acquisition can be found in this Houston Chronicle article. The fact that such a large and influential company took notice of the great things going on in the Houston technology community is phenomenal. 

I’m excited to see how the FastTech 50 has evolved and how proud companies are to be included on the list. Network International, a two time FastTech50 winner, quoted me in their recent press release about their inclusion on this year’s list. Click here to see the release. 

Robert Cresanti’s comments struck a chord with me and it’s good to know that Washington is taking notice of our city and the opportunities we offer to companies to be a player on the global technology stage. 

A note of thanks to Brad Burke over at the Rice Alliance for getting the luncheon on the Secretary’s schedule.  The Rice Alliance is a sponsor of the FastTech 50 and we appreciate their long time support.

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