NONAGON - São Miguel Science and Technology Park was formalised today as non-profit association with scientific, technological and training purposes. This initiative is the result of a partnership between the Regional Government, through the Regional Secretariat for Science, Technology and Infrastructures, and the Lagoa Town Hall.

After signing the deed of constitution of NONAGON, José Contente pointed out that from now on, and as long as the construction of the Technological Park takes place, the association's officials will strengthen contacts with companies in order to "attract them to the Science and Technology Park as well as entities in the field of science, technology, earth observation, sea and space related activities, which are the fields covered by NONAGON."

The Regional Secretary confirmed that several entities have shown interest in the Technological Park, such as PT, Microsoft, YDreams, among others. "This association has all tools to capture potential investors more actively and to be part of the International Association of Science Parks, which is a body with potential to attract companies that may be interested in investing and developing this scientific and technological culture in the Azores."

For José Contente, the NONAGON project is part of a new development phase of the Azores - the promotion of the knowledge society - bringing more high-tech companies to the Azores as well as more investment and qualified employment.

The NONAGON project aims to support the technology dynamics and the training of qualified human resources in the field of information systems and communications, and Earth, Space and Sea monitoring and observation.

The new association will be in charge of managing and administering the São Miguel Science and Technology Park; reinforcing the collaboration and connection between its members as well as between them and the scientific and business community; fostering cooperation with other entities by establishing national or international partnerships to achieve common goals and develop scientific and technological hubs; supporting the creation or the development of companies, including technology introduction or enhancement.

NONAGON is a project intended to implement the following goals: promote and support research and development activities (R&D) in its areas of expertise; promote and coordinate training courses targeted at the enhancement and specialisation of scientific and technical staff, either national or foreign; support local institutions in pursuing and developing a science and technology policy; promote, develop and support the implementation of infrastructures providing technological support to the modernisation of industries.