In the ever-evolving landscape of state government, a few individuals have managed to make a lasting impact by streamlining interactions and implementing innovative solutions. Chris Schmidt, the Director of the Technology Modernization Office at NC.gov, is one such visionary leader who has transformed the way citizens interact with their government. Through his tireless efforts, Chris has turned the conventional notion of bureaucracy on its head, making it easier for people to access vital services and information. As a driving force behind the state’s technology modernization efforts, Chris has spearheaded numerous initiatives that have revolutionized the way North Carolina’s government operates. His dedication to creating a seamless user experience has earned him recognition as a forward-thinking leader in the public sector. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Chris Schmidt’s vision and the impact he’s made at NC.gov, highlighting the innovative solutions that have transformed the way citizens interact with their government.
Background and Role of Chris Schmidt
Education and Early Career
Chris Schmidt, a native of Raleigh, North Carolina, has built a career centered around fostering innovation and economic development. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Recreation and Park Management from Appalachian State University, complemented by a minor in Business Administration. Her educational background in recreation and business laid a foundation for her later roles in the public and private sectors.
Early in her career, Chris leveraged her education to work within the public and nonprofit sectors, where she gained invaluable experience in managing projects and resources. Her work often involved collaborating with diverse stakeholders to achieve common goals, a skill that would prove essential in her later roles.
Transition to NC Department of Commerce
In the spring of 2022, Chris Schmidt joined the North Carolina Department of Commerce, taking on the role of Grants Manager at the Office of Science, Technology & Innovation (OSTI). This move marks a strategic transition from administrative roles to a position where she can have a broader impact on the state’s economic and technological progress.
In her new role, Schmidt is responsible for overseeing the One NC Small Business Program and other grants managed by OSTI. This includes developing annual solicitation guidelines, conducting thorough reviews of grant applications, and ensuring compliance with all relevant state and federal regulations. Her diverse experience in managing state and federal funding programs for the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, as well as her role as a grant seeker for the N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation, has equipped her with the skills necessary to excel in her new position.
Managing Grants and Innovation Programs
One NC Small Business Program
The One NC Small Business Program is a cornerstone initiative under the purview of the Office of Science, Technology & Innovation. This program is designed to provide critical funding and support to small businesses across North Carolina, aiming to enhance their competitiveness and drive innovation. Chris Schmidt plays a pivotal role in the administration of this program, working closely with businesses to understand their needs and ensure that they receive the necessary resources to succeed.
Through the One NC Small Business Program, Schmidt oversees the solicitation of applications, the review process, and the final grant disbursement. She ensures that the program aligns with the broader economic development goals of the state, focusing on sectors that have the potential for high growth and innovation. The program has been instrumental in supporting numerous small businesses, contributing to the overall health of North Carolina’s economy.
Grant Administration Processes
The process of administering grants within the Office of Science, Technology & Innovation involves a meticulous and structured approach to ensure compliance and effective use of funds. Chris Schmidt leads the team in developing annual solicitation guidelines, which are critical for attracting eligible applications. The guidelines are designed to be clear and accessible, ensuring that potential applicants can easily understand the requirements and expectations.
Once applications are submitted, the review process begins. This involves a thorough evaluation of each application to determine its alignment with the program’s objectives, as well as its potential for impact. Schmidt and her team conduct an initial screening to filter out applications that do not meet the basic criteria. Those that pass this initial review are then subjected to a detailed evaluation process, which may include site visits, interviews, and further documentation. This ensures that only the most promising and impactful projects receive funding.
Post-award, Schmidt and her team continue to work closely with grantees to ensure they meet all performance criteria and remain in compliance with grant requirements. This ongoing support helps to safeguard the investment and ensure that the outcomes align with the program’s goals.
Technology Coalitions and State Priorities
Fostering Innovation through Coalitions
North Carolina is actively fostering innovation through the establishment and support of technology coalitions, also known as hubs, clusters, or centers. These coalitions bring together businesses, academic institutions, and government entities, creating a collaborative ecosystem that accelerates innovation and economic development. The Office of Science, Technology & Innovation (OSTI) plays a vital role in supporting these coalitions.
Chris Schmidt and her team at OSTI work closely with technology coalitions to provide strategic support and resources. This support can range from financial assistance to technical guidance, helping the coalitions to secure funding and achieve their objectives. By fostering these collaborations, the state aims to create an environment where innovative ideas can flourish, leading to advancements in technology and other sectors.
Enhancing Economic Development
To enhance economic development, North Carolina is leveraging the power of technology coalitions to create a robust and sustainable growth model. Chris Schmidt and her team are instrumental in this process, providing resources and support that enable these coalitions to innovate and grow. Through strategic initiatives and targeted grant programs, the state aims to promote job creation, business growth, and overall economic development.
One key strategy is the alignment of coalition goals with state priorities. By ensuring that the coalitions are working on projects that align with the state’s economic development goals, Schmidt and OSTI can maximize the impact of their support. This alignment is achieved through regular communication and collaboration between the coalitions and the state’s economic development agencies.
Another critical aspect of enhancing economic development is the strategic allocation of resources. Schmidt and her team at OSTI ensure that resources are directed to the most promising projects that have the potential to drive innovation and growth. This includes not only financial assistance but also technical support and networking opportunities that can help businesses and researchers collaborate effectively.
Coalition Support and Resource Guide
To support the formation and growth of technology coalitions, the Office of Science, Technology & Innovation (OSTI) has developed a comprehensive Coalition Support and Resource Guide. This guide is a key resource designed to help coalitions pursue federal and private investment opportunities. The guide provides detailed information on the processes involved in securing funding and the types of support available from OSTI and the Board of Science, Technology & Innovation (BSTI).
The Coalition Support and Resource Guide is structured to cover various aspects of coalition development, from initial formation to securing funding and beyond. It includes sections on financial management infrastructure, alignment with OSTI’s mission, and strategies for success. This guide is intended to be a living document that evolves as the needs and opportunities of North Carolina’s technology coalitions change.
To begin the process of identifying support opportunities, technology coalitions are encouraged to fill out the NC Coalitions Intake Form. This form serves as a critical tool for assessing the maturity and preparedness of each coalition, helping to identify areas where strategic support from OSTI/BSTI could be most beneficial. The intake form helps to gauge a coalition’s financial management infrastructure and its alignment with OSTI’s mission, enabling the state to provide targeted support that maximizes impact.
Real-World Applications and Examples
North Carolina has seen significant success through the strategic support of technology coalitions. For instance, the Research Triangle Park, one of the earliest and most successful coalitions, is a prime example of how these collaborations can drive innovation and economic growth. The park, home to numerous research institutions and technology companies, has been a catalyst for the state’s economic development, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of innovation that continues to attract businesses and researchers from around the world.
Another example is the North Carolina Biotechnology Center, a coalition that focuses on biotechnology and life sciences. The center has been a pivotal player in developing North Carolina’s biotechnology sector, attracting significant investment and fostering a robust network of businesses, researchers, and support services. The state’s support through grants, mentorship, and access to resources has been instrumental in the success of the center and the broader biotechnology sector.
These examples illustrate the tangible benefits of supporting technology coalitions. By providing the right resources and support, the state can catalyze innovation and drive economic growth. Chris Schmidt and her team at OSTI play a crucial role in this process, ensuring that the state’s resources are directed toward initiatives that have the greatest potential for impact.
Chris Schmidt – NC.gov: Fostering Innovation and Economic Development through Technology Coalitions
The North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Office of Science, Technology & Innovation (OSTI) are committed to supporting and fostering the growth of technology coalitions across the state. With the appointment of Chris Schmidt as Grants Manager for OSTI, the department has strengthened its capacity to manage and administer grants, including the One NC Small Business Program. This program plays a crucial role in driving innovation, infrastructure development, and advanced manufacturing projects statewide.
Under Schmidt’s leadership, the OSTI aims to enhance the capabilities of coalitions seeking federal or private investment opportunities. The Coalition Support and Resource Guide, for instance, provides a comprehensive set of resources and strategic support for coalitions, enabling them to compete more effectively for funding and fostering sustainable growth.
Resources and Support for Coalitions
Coalition Support and Resource Guide
The Coalition Support and Resource Guide, developed by OSTI/BSTI, is a vital tool for coalitions seeking federal or private investment opportunities. By providing a strong foundation of internal capabilities and support, coalitions can pursue these opportunities with confidence and increased chances of success. The guide covers various aspects, including:
- Grant writing best practices
- Financial management infrastructure
- Alignment with OSTI’s mission
- Maturity level assessment
Strategic Initiatives for Growth
The OSTI is continuously seeking ways to expand the range and types of support provided to North Carolina technology coalitions. By working closely with coalitions, OSTI can identify areas of growth and provide targeted support, ensuring that coalitions have the necessary resources to thrive.
Practical Implications and Future Prospects
Impact on Local Businesses
The initiatives and support provided by OSTI and the North Carolina Department of Commerce have significant implications for local businesses. By fostering innovation and economic development, these programs contribute to job creation, business growth, and overall community prosperity.
Future Directions for NC.gov
Based on current initiatives, the future for OSTI and the North Carolina Department of Commerce appears promising. By continuing to prioritize the formation and support of technology coalitions, the state can attract more funding, drive economic growth, and maintain its competitive edge in innovation and infrastructure development.
Communication and Engagement
NC Coalitions Intake Form
The NC Coalitions Intake Form plays a critical role in supporting coalitions. By providing essential information, coalitions can measure their maturity level, assess their preparedness, and identify areas for growth. This form serves as the first step in engaging with OSTI and accessing available support resources.
Community and Stakeholder Engagement
Effective communication and engagement between coalitions and state support systems are essential for success. OSTI encourages methods such as regular meetings, workshops, and webinars, enabling coalitions to stay informed and engaged in the process.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Steps for Engaging with OSTI
- Fill out the NC Coalitions Intake Form
- Schedule a meeting with OSTI to discuss support opportunities
- Identify areas for growth and expansion
- Collaborate with OSTI to develop a strategic plan
Contact Information and Support Resources
Chris Schmidt, Grants Manager, OSTI
Phone: 919-814-4668
Email: [email protected]
By following these steps and utilizing available resources, coalitions can effectively engage with the Office of Science, Technology & Innovation, fostering growth, innovation, and economic development across North Carolina.
Conclusion
In conclusion, our exploration of Chris Schmidt’s work at NC.gov has provided a glimpse into the importance of effective digital governance and the transformative impact it can have on citizens’ lives. By leveraging innovative technologies and strategic partnerships, Chris Schmidt has demonstrated a commitment to empowering North Carolina’s residents through seamless access to essential services and information. The key takeaways from this article highlight the significance of investing in digital infrastructure, fostering collaboration between government agencies, and prioritizing citizen-centric solutions to create a more responsive and transparent government.
The implications of Chris Schmidt’s work extend beyond the state of North Carolina, as his initiatives serve as a model for other government agencies seeking to modernize their operations and improve citizen engagement. As technology continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, it is clear that government institutions must adapt to meet the changing needs of their constituents. The future of digital governance will be shaped by innovators like Chris Schmidt, who understand the power of collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and a customer-centric approach.
As we reflect on the lessons from Chris Schmidt’s work, we are reminded that the future of government is not simply a matter of adopting new technologies, but rather a fundamental transformation of how we serve the public. As Chris Schmidt’s legacy continues to inspire a new generation of digital leaders, we are compelled to ask: What will be the next chapter in the evolution of digital governance, and how will we harness its potential to create a more just, equitable, and responsive society for all?