Russia backs new research cluster
Government touts high-tech science area as Russia’s answer to Silicon Valley
The Russian government has officially approved plans for a new large-scale scientific cluster in St. Petersburg. The centre will be modelled on Skolkovo – a high technology business park near Moscow.
According to Russian prime minister Dmitry Medvedev, investment in the project will amount to RUB41 billion (£530 million). The government predicts the new cluster will provide training for 3600 people, and house 50 international laboratories and at least 10 innovative production facilities. It will create 6000 highly skilled jobs in the initial stages.