MIT’s strategic bet on retaining tech talent fuels Massachusetts’ next wave

The Boston Globe unveiled its 2026 Tech Power Players list, naming eight MIT affiliates. President Sally Kornbluth credits the recognition to MIT’s deliberate policy of converting research density into locally‑retained ventures. Two mechanisms drive this: (1) the Committee on Accelerating Translation and Entrepreneurship (CATE) increases the pipeline of entrepreneurship courses and accelerators; (2) a $50 million partnership with GE Vernova funds internships that tie students to local industry. These efforts aim to stem the out‑migration of deep‑tech talent, though their long‑term impact on headquarters location and job creation remains unmeasured.