VO:  Innovation should have no borders.  The biggest challenges of our time will only be solved by bringing together the best minds from across disciplines and from around the world.

　　That's why Tsinghua University and the University of Washington, with foundational support from Microsoft, are partnering to turn big ideas into big impact.

　　The Global Innovation Exchange, GIX, is a new academic institute that will unite top students and faculty with professionals and entrepreneurs in an intensive, project-based learning environment.

　　Project teams will have a global focus, linking up with research-led companies and nonprofits, so students can tackle real world challenges in areas such as mobile health, smart cities, sustainable development, and the Internet of Things.

　　Starting with a master's degree in Technology Innovation, and adding additional degree and certificate programs, in a decade more than 3,000 learners will be at GIX, studying to become the next generation of innovators.

　　The first ever physical presence in the United States for a Chinese research university, the institute will be located in Bellevue's Spring District, a new urban development on Seattle's East Side, close to multiple technology corridors and just 10 miles from the University of Washington.

　　Deep partnerships with the technology ecosystem will drive GIX.  As the first partner, Microsoft is investing $40 million in initial funding, and additional leading universities and companies will join.

　　A unique and equal partnership between two world class universities, backed by one of the world's leading companies, with additional partners on the horizon, this new center for innovation excellence will provide cutting-edge facilities, train highly skilled professionals and entrepreneurs, and strengthen ties between these neighbors across the Pacific, and between innovators from around the globe.

　　The Global Innovation Exchange will bring innovators together for a world of good.