To the editor:

Kansas legislators have an opportunity to keep Kansas technology and innovation moving forward or to reverse years of strategic work that has given Kansas a competitive edge, thousands of jobs, billions in sales revenue and a positive national reputation as a technology hub. What’s it going to be, legislators? Continue to win the game? Or drop the ball?

For some reason, Kansas Technology Enterprise Corp. is being painted by a few Kansas legislators as a poor investment and having a bad track record. How about looking at the empirical data? Its results are impressive. According to its Web site, KTEC’s efforts, just last year, brought nearly 1,000 new jobs to our state, $207 million of increased sales, $46 million in equity placements and $101 million in additional federal investment. Why would any legislator vote to end that?

Two years ago, I chose to volunteer my time to mentor Kansas companies and entrepreneurs through the KTEC PIPELINE program because I believe in the business strategies, teachings of this organization and its leadership.

These are tough times. Efficiency is more important than ever. With my business experience, I clearly know that now is the time to maintain winning programs, especially one that has significantly increased new business, taxes and employment for Kansas residents. Legislators, do not drop the ball and run for cover; instead put your shoulder to the task at hand and be proactive by voting to maintain funding for one of the best assets Kansas has, KTEC.

We in the private sector are watching and working with you.