Regional Design Firm Hired to Design the World’s First Organic Eco-Food Park
The Port of Columbia announces the hiring of USKH, Inc. to design Blue Mountain Station, the world’s first organic eco-food park… Blue Mountain Station will be a catalyst for a fully-integrated organic processed food branding program from the farmer to the processor to the wholesaler and, finally, to the retailer.

The News Tribune: Governor hails trade as key to state
Although most states across the nation are facing budget deficits as the economy continues to struggle, Gov. Chris Gregoire said Washington is in a much better position. The state is doing better because Washington and its businesses have taken advantage of international trade opportunities, Gregoire told community and business leaders…

Washington exports climbed to a record $66.26 billion in 2007, growing 25 percent over 2006 and nearly doubling in size over the past three years. For international trade resources, click here.

Seattle Times and Seattle Post-Intelligencer report on global health as hot field
Global health is a $4.1 billion sector in Washington state with more than 190 organizations conducting work to help cure the world’s biggest health problems. Regional leaders discuss the economic importance of the state as a center for global health. Read the Seattle Times article here.  Read the Seattle Post-Intelligencer article here.

Industry Spotlight: Global Health
A rapidly growing and influential sector, global health will be the topic of discussion at this year's Seattle Chamber's Regional Leadership Conference (Oct 22-24). Gov. Chris Gregoire will address regional leaders on the importance of this $4.1 billion sector.

Globally Connected: Five Washington state tech companies head to China to explore mobile business opportunities
Xconomy reports on CTED and WTIA’s three-city visit to China for five Washington state tech companies. “It’s the third WTIA-organized trip to China in the past year, and the first dedicated to a specific tech industry — mobile telecommunications. The trip’s focus “is on understanding the opportunity and dynamics of the China mobile market and setting up one-on-one business matchmaking meetings with the participants,” says Ken Myer, CEO of the WTIA (and an Xconomist). “Our goal with this mission is to open up business opportunities for our members who are seeking to enter or expand their presence in China.”

Infinia Corporation Continues To Attract Premier Leadership, Expands Its Executive Team
Infinia Corporation announced the expansion of its senior management team to include three accomplished executives. Patrick Rooney has joined as Chief Accounting Officer, Gabriel (Gaby) Tashjian has joined as Vice President of Commercial Operations and Managing Director, Asia, Africa and the Middle East, and Howard Monk has joined as Vice President of Operations.

Bothell Biomedical Networking Event: Tapping the UW's scientific resources
Building off of the successful Washington State Biomedical Device Summit in May, this interactive event is an opportunity for industry leaders to obtain information about the many scientific resources and facilities available for use within the University of Washington. For additional information and to RSVP, contact Terrie Battuello at 425.489.3387 by Oct. 24.

Port of Kennewick Tenant Named SmartMap Manufacturer of the Year
The Tri-Cities Development Council (TRIDEC) named Ag Engineering and Development Company as SmartMap Manufacturer of the Year. The Port of Kennewick nominated Ag Engineering and Development Company for the award to recognize their innovative engineering and development of practical farm products.

Latest travel industry impact report indicates strong growth
The Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development recently released the 2007 country travel impacts report. The report, prepared for Washington State Tourism, documents the significant impact that the travel industry makes in each of Washington’s 39 counties. The findings show the level of travel spending in each county and the impact of this spending in terms of tax revenue, earnings and employment.

Seattle Times: Seattle biotech lures new executive talent from Atlanta
Calistoga Pharmaceuticals has lured Carol Gallagher, the former chief executive of Atlanta-based Metastatix, to be its first CEO as the young Seattle biotechnology company expands its research on therapies for cancer and other ailments.

From Xconomy: Washington and Oregon Could Lead the U.S. in Cleantech Under New Policies, Report Says
The Pacific Northwest could potentially be the first region in the United States to achieve 75 percent of its electricity supply from carbon-free sources like hydropower and renewables. But that will require a dedicated new effort in cleantech policy and investment which, if successful, could create 41,000 to 63,000 new jobs in Washington and Oregon across five energy sectors by 2025.

New Industrial Space Available at Port of Camas-Washougal
Port of Camas-Washougal announces the addition of another 15,000 square feet of new industrial space on port property as the $1.45 million Building 14 nears completion. Even as the final touches are being installed on Building 14, Port tenant Right Choice Cabinets, Inc. is preparing to move in as the new building’s first industrial tenant. Right Choice Cabinets will utilize 3,750 square feet for its custom cabinet manufacturing operation.

Port of Walla Walla sells building to Key Technology, Inc.
Port of Walla Walla Commission President Dr. Fred Bennett announced today the Port has agreed to sell Key Technology, Inc. its leased building located at the Port's Avery Street Industrial Park. The lease agreement between the Port and Key Technology, Inc. contained a provision granting Key Technology, Inc. an option to purchase its facility. The purchase price is approximately $6.5 million.