Robert Atkinson

Robert D. Atkinson was born on April 20, 1957. He is a widely recognized expert and commentator on innovation policy, including issues related to global competitiveness, productivity, and technology policy. Atkinson serves as President of the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation, a non-partisan, non-profit think tank based in Washington, D.C. His work focuses on developing and advocating for policies that drive innovation and productivity, and he's a columnist for several prominent publications.

On June 30, 2004, Robert D. Atkinson published 'The Past And Future Of America’s Economy: Long Waves of Innovation That Power Cycles of Growth'. The book examines historical economic cycles driven by waves of technological innovation, illustrating how past advancements have shaped economic transformations. Atkinson argues for the importance of continued investment in innovation to drive future economic cycles. The book has been influential in shaping discussions around economic policy and the importance of supporting new technologies to ensure sustainable growth.

In 2006, Robert D. Atkinson founded the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF). The ITIF has since become a highly influential think tank focusing on a broad range of issues including technology, innovation, broadband, clean energy, trade, and economic policy. Atkinson, through ITIF, has provided substantial policy proposals and analysis on how governments and businesses can enhance productivity through technology and innovation. His work emphasizes the need for strong support of technological advancement to ensure economic growth and competitiveness.

On March 15, 2012, Robert D. Atkinson co-authored the book 'Innovation Economics: The Race for Global Advantage' with Stephen J. Ezell. The book explores the central role of innovation in economic growth and how countries can create policies to spur innovation and compete in the global economy. It argues that outdated economic theories slow down economic growth and that a shift towards innovation-driven economic models is crucial. The work has been cited widely in discussions about policy and economic reform, with Atkinson contributing critical insights into how innovation is the key to securing future prosperity.

In October 2013, Robert D. Atkinson testified before the United States Congress, emphasizing the importance of expanding broadband access to drive economic growth and innovation. He argued that widespread broadband availability is crucial for businesses to adopt new technologies, improve productivity, and innovate. His testimony highlighted the gaps in broadband coverage and provided specific policy recommendations to bridge these gaps, advocating for infrastructure investments and regulatory reforms to enhance Internet access. Atkinson's detailed analysis and recommendations underscored the impact of broadband on economic competitiveness and innovation.

On June 19, 2018, Robert D. Atkinson presented at the OECD conference on strategies for artificial intelligence policy. His presentation addressed the economic implications of AI and the need for a strategic approach in AI development. Atkinson argued that AI has the potential to revolutionize productivity across sectors, but it requires thoughtful policy frameworks to manage its adoption and impact. His insights emphasized the balance between fostering innovation and addressing ethical concerns associated with AI technologies. The presentation contributed significantly to the ongoing discourse on AI policy at an international level.

On September 20, 2019, Robert D. Atkinson delivered a keynote speech at the Global Innovation Summit, addressing global technology trends and the future of innovation-driven economic development. His speech highlighted critical issues such as the global race for technological supremacy and the role of government policy in fostering innovation ecosystems. Atkinson emphasized the necessity for strategic investments in technology and education to maintain competitiveness and drive sustainable economic growth. His insights provided strategic guidance for policymakers and business leaders globally preparing for the future challenges of the digital economy.

On May 15, 2020, Robert D. Atkinson launched 'The Wake-Up Call' podcast, a series focused on how technological innovation can help in transforming important policy discussions. The podcast features interviews and commentary from leaders in policy, technology, and business, covering issues from digital transformation to economic policy and innovation. Atkinson uses this platform to delve into how innovation can be a catalyst for change and tackles contemporary challenges faced by policymakers. The series offers valuable insights into the technological landscape shaping today's economies.