SALT LAKE CITY (May 12, 2021) — The Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) is pleased to announce Linda Cabrales as the new director of GOED’s Utah Innovation Center. She assumes her new role today, following the retirement of the current director, Mary Cardon, from state employment.

“We’re thrilled Linda accepted the position of director of the Utah Innovation Center and wish Mary Cardon the very best in her retirement,” said Ryan Starks, GOED’s managing director of Business Services. “Linda’s tireless efforts as a champion for Utah small businesses and entrepreneurs is unparalleled, and the Utah Innovation Center is in competent hands.”

The Utah Innovation Center supports technology development across several sectors, including advanced materials, aerospace and defense, energy, information technology, and life sciences. It helps Utah small businesses and entrepreneurs win federal research and development dollars through the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer programs. The Utah Innovation Center facilitates business growth and supports innovation to better lives and provide economic opportunity for Utahns.

“There are so many well-deserving small businesses and entrepreneurs in Utah with game-changing innovations and business ideas,” said Cabrales. “The Utah Innovation Center is eager to assist them in securing the financial backing to help them realize their dreams.”

About Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Development

Under Gov. Spencer J. Cox’s direction, the Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) provides resources and support for business creation, growth, and recruitment. It also drives increased tourism, film production, outdoor recreation, and mixed martial arts in Utah. A GOED initiative, the Utah Innovation Center supports Utah’s key industries and helps Utah innovators win federal research and development dollars through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. Utilizing state resources and private sector contracts, GOED administers programs in economic areas that demonstrate the highest potential for development and the most opportunity for Utahns. Learn more at business.utah.gov or by calling (801) 538-8680.