Colorado Cleantech Announces New Deputy Director

Online, March 8, 2012 (Newswire.com) - The Colorado Cleantech Industry Association (CCIA) announced today the addition of Christopher Votoupal as Deputy Director of legislative operations. In this role, he will be responsible for expanding Colorado Cleantech Industry Association's voice at the state level, advocating for policy that drives the cleantech economy and works in the best interest of CCIA member organizations.

Votoupal most recently served as Deputy Press Secretary for Congressman Ed Perlmutter of Colorado's 7th district. Prior to serving as Rep. Perlmutter's Deputy Press Secretary, Votoupal climbed the ranks from the communications team to Economic Recovery Coordinator in the Perlmutter camp.

"We're seeing growing bipartisan support at the state-level to focus on more cleantech job creation," says Votoupal. "I look forward to partnering with state leaders on efforts to strengthen the region as a national leader in a green economy."

Votoupal brings with him many years of direct congressional experience and applicable liaison familiarity with small business owners and constituents.

"Chris' depth of legislative knowledge and experience will be a great asset to CCIA," says Chris Shapard, Executive Director of CCIA. "So much of economic development -
especially in the energy industry - is being driven through legislation that we felt that it was time to expand our voice a the state level."

Colorado's clean technology investments continues to grow, despite the sluggish economy. In 2011, the industry received $8.99 billion in venture capital funding, up 113 percent from 2010. Colorado is in the top five of sates receiving funding, taking in 5 percent of overall investments made in the United States.

About CCIA
The Colorado Cleantech Industry Association represents the interests of the state's cleantech industry. Its mission is to further establish Colorado as a world leader in clean technology by providing representation and advocacy, a unified voice, relevant programming and capacity development. For more information, visit http://www.coloradocleantech.com.