Innovation

Facebook Group "Create WV" posted two thought-proking questions recently.  Both deal with the subject of innovation as it relates to the economy and the future.  The questions are:
1) Cultures can and do change over time. What antecedents are needed to spark positive cultural and economic change in WV?
2) Why do biz and govt leaders, chamber of commerce groups, etc. talk almost exclusively about attracting biz, and not fostering innovation?

On the first question, it begins with a state of mind, a "can do attitude", not a "can't do attitude". If you don't see yourself as a Silicon Valley, then you'll never be one! That culture change may take generations to fully take effect. I believe that it must begin in the education system, as early as the elementary grade level. Advance that philosophy through the secondary school system and you have developed the framework for change and innovation.

On the second issue, the listed organizations are fundamentally ill-equipped to foster innovation because they lack the understanding and skills required to develop the appropriate nurturing environment. So, as a result of this deficency, they continue the old, outdated policies of growing the future through business relocation. 

How do we overcome these headwinds?  Seems insurmountable, doesn't it?