Kudos to Scott Kirsner for rallying the troops and declaring June as the innovation month in New England. And congrats to Gov. Deval Patrick for jumping on the bandwagon and officially proclaiming June as Innovation Month. Let’s also take a moment to celebrate the residents and organizations who contribute regularly to the innovation economy. It’s their passion, effort and entrepreneurship that gives us the right to claim Massachusetts, especially Boston, as The Innovation Hub.
But like many, I believe that every month is innovation month. In fact, innovation is an every day activity for me — whether I am running the company or working with my team to make sure our global customers are on the cutting-edge of technology and innovating 24X7.
But Scott’s question stopped me dead in my tracks and got me thinking. What’s so important about June? Why not declare 2010 as the start of an innovation decade? Here’s my perspective on June:
Blooming Partnerships: June, as you know, is a popular wedding month (bear with me here). After long engagements, couples look forward to tying the knot and living a happy, prosperous life. Summer is also the time when most couples evaluate their relationships and adjust accordingly, whether they are planning a family or about to become empty nesters. In the world of technology, June signifies the end of the first half and a time to reflect on our business strategy and forecast the future. It’s time to re-engage with customers on the progress of their innovation initiatives. Are the projects blooming or wilting? Are there programs they need a divorce from so they can embark on new initiatives? Granted we are always collaborating with our customers. But June is when we refocus and revisit our game plan and ensure that the relationships are strong and prosperous.
Anticipation: For sport fans, this is an exciting time. The Red Sox are finally hitting their strides. Basketball fans are holding their breath. Who will win the NBA championship? In reality, it’s always nail-biting time in New England — whether you are rooting for a team or innovation breakthroughs. We literally sit at the edge of our seats every day, not knowing what will come next – will a company deliver another game changing product, what medical discoveries will cure terminal illnesses or perhaps a young entrepreneur could save the planet from global warming. Yes, we wait in anticipation for innovations that will not just change our lives but impact the economic prosperity of the commonwealth and the world.
Inspiration: June is optimal for awakening, from nature to ideas. The glorious weather and coastline nurturers creativity, irrespective of our expertise or interest. And, I can’t think of another city that has as many medical and research institutions as Boston. The academic world is filled with professors and advisors who influence government policies and private initiatives. They also serve as mentors to all the students who get their education here. And after years of preparation and tough internships, thousands of these brilliant minds and eager contributors join the workplace in June, adding to our innovation culture and growth. As an adjunct professor, it’s an amazing feeling to see my MBA students enter the professional world, ready to impact and influence the business community and drive next generation innovations.
The Happening Place: Massachusetts is indeed the innovation hub. Many breakthrough technologies and industries are born here, from medical and life sciences to energy and manufacturing. Just look at the number of events taking place in June and multiply that with events that happen throughout the year. It’s at these events that people collaborate, create and deliver. As an entrepreneur, I can’t imagine being anywhere else. I grew up in the area, worked in multiple companies, collaborated with VCs to build and sell companies. Currently, I run a profitable company with outstanding professionals and we are proud to be working with global corporations to drive and foster their innovation initiatives.
So thanks Scott for making me step back and reflect on things that we take for granted. June is indeed a special month in New England, and possibly around the world.
Here’s to innovators, entrepreneurs, investors and mentors. Let our passion for innovation continue to permeate through our lives, every day of every month. After all, an innovation economy is as good as the people who contribute, and execute well on brilliant ideas.
Posted by Mark Atkins 
