Since the formation of the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) in 1973, R&D consortia in the United States have become powerful engines of economic development, advancing technology creation and dissemination in entire industries. In Technology Fountainheads, Corey explores the social, economic, and political aspects of forming and managing these collaborative ventures among business, government, and academia.

The book draws on the experiences of six of the oldest and largest consortia - EPRI, the Gas Research Institute, Semiconductor Research Corporation, Microelectronics and Computer Technology Corporation, Bell Communications Research, and SEMATECH - to reveal why, instead of squelching the innovation that comes from interfirm competition, R&D consortia have in fact helped to accelerate market growth and improve American competitiveness.

Corey outlines the essential traits of successful consortia - a compelling initial vision, a sustainable mission, and strong leadership - and explores critical issues in consortium management, including the planning process and the multiple influences of consortia members, external interest groups, and government agencies in setting the R&D agenda.

He considers the key elements of consortia strategy - membership delineation, funding mechanisms, R&D sourcing arrangements, product lines, and technology delivery systems. He also compares the rise of R&D consortia in the United States, Japan, and Europe. Finally, Corey evaluates the future of R&D consortia, the economic consequences of their continued growth, and the necessity of constructive government policy in realizing the full benefits of collaborative R&D for national economic development.