I am blogging from Russia today, to formally launch our partnership with Russia’s International Science and Technology Center (ISTC) to bring a group of Russia’s most promising scientific institutes and inventors together with U.S. corporations. What an opportunity!

Before I get down to business, I have to mention that my first impression of this beautiful country is breathtaking! The scene was set for me the moment I arrived, amidst a soft snowfall and surrounded by beautiful architechtural structures. I am fascinated by the local history here as well as the tastes and sounds of Moscow.

I have met some great people at ISTC, and I’m seeing how its efforts have been highly successful. Among those contributions: $744 million for research. ISTC has funded 2,437 projects at 922 Institutes in Russia and the CIS, with over 67,000 scientists participating!

At the moment I am immersed in exploring practical ways to redirect the creativity and intellectual capabilities of Soviet scientists towards meeting global non-proliferation objectives and the technological R&D demands of international business and industry. Already I can see ways to deliver a competitive advantage to U.S. corporations willing to tap into the expertise of these Russian scientists, who are highly skilled in biotechnology, agriculture, biomass, healthcare, nanotechnology and bioengineering. This organization can support pre-commercialization and commercialization efforts as well to link R&D potential in Russia and CIS with established and emerging markets.

I am finding ways to expand clients’ businesses with new market opportunities and broaden their research base to create innovative products. I am also seeing new ways to leverage cost-effective technical solutions to be more competitive.