Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology

The Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST) was established in 1987 by the Oklahoma legislature for the purpose of growing and diversifying the state’s economy through technology development, technology transfer and technology commercialization. The agency takes great pride in being recognized as a best-in-class, results-driven, high-performing and efficient organization that benefits our state by increasing research activity and public/private collaborations leading to innovation, new businesses, job growth, higher wages and an improved quality of life for the citizens of our state and nation. OCAST also is an active supporter of STEM education across Oklahoma’s common education system and provides funding to support internships between local industries and higher education. **Purpose** The Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST) was created as the state’s agency for technology-based economic development (TBED). OCAST’s mandate is to “expand and diversify Oklahoma’s economy and provide new and higher quality jobs for Oklahomans” by encouraging “. . . the development of new products, new processes and whole new industries in Oklahoma.” (O.S. 74, Sections 5060.1a and 5060.2A) **Mission** To foster innovation in existing and developing businesses ? by supporting basic and applied research ? by facilitating technology transfer between research laboratories and businesses ? by providing seed capital for innovative firms in the development of new products or services ? by helping Oklahoma’s small and medium-sized manufacturing firms become more competitive through increased productivity and modernization (O.S. 74, Section 5060.3) **Vision** OCAST’s vision is continued growth and vitality through facilitating collaboration between state government, universities, start-up companies and established large-scale firms to develop an entrepreneurial environment that supports technology-based economic development. In pursuit of this vision and in carrying out its mission, the agency funds cutting-edge science and technology through processes that are recognized nationally and internationally for excellence, objectivity and economic impact. OCAST’s strategy includes technologies such as biosciences, information technology, sensors and electronics, advanced materials, energy and alternative fuel sources. Achieving this vision will result in continued growth of advanced technology companies in the state thereby increasing Oklahoma’s global competitiveness, per capita income and quality of life.