Page 30: of Marine News Magazine (April 2012)

30MNApril 2012of Naval Research, Raytheon, and many others. Significantly, they also provide simulation software for the Massachusetts Maritime Academys Emergency Management graduate degree program. Rounding out the week was a visit to ASA, also a global science and technology firm that notably markets the OilmapWeb system, a web-based version of ASAs OILMAP software for oil spill response training and plan- ning. Using OILMAP, a user can then run the oil spill model, entering the location of the accident, and amountand type of oil that is released. Using this data, the soft- ware provides key response strategies for responders. THEOCEANSTATE : THECASEFOR MARITIMEBUSINESSTwo days in March, hosted by the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation, opened a lot of eyes to Rhode Islands current business climate and its future potential to host additional marine business oppor- tunities. Rhode Island has a long-standing history of Marine industries that have continued to innovate and evolve to grow,? said Keith Stokes, Executive Director of the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC). The RIEDC is a business resource to business- es looking to expand and relocate to Rhode Island, we offer financing options for the marine industry, including business loans through the Small Business Loan Fund, as well as tax incentives and other workforce development assistance. Also, no sales tax is levied on boats registered in the State.? The many and varied maritime businesses dotting the Rhode Island coastline show no apparent signs of a slug- gish economy. In fact, most showed growth within a diffi- cult period and all exhibited ongoing business and theprospects for more. The smallest state with a long coast- line and a big maritime footprint may also be poised to bethe nations first to dip their toes into the offshore wind power game. And, thats because Rhode Island is open for business.At the heart of Governor Chafees revitalization efforts is his recognition that the marine trade industry will play a key role in Rhode Islands future. In March, the Governor told gathered journalists that he believes these industries, which carry great potential for high-skilled manufacturing, will be crucial, just as they have been throughout the states history. ASAs OILMAP software screenshot