By Suzanne Cruit, Penn State Great Valley

From smart watches to smart glasses to personal safety devices, the wearable technology market is a game-changing industry projected to hit $5 billion in sales worldwide this year.

As part of the ongoing Igniting Innovation series, Penn State Great Valley and the Chester County Economic Development Council present “Igniting Innovation and Wearable Technology,” a forum focused on the economic impact of this burgeoning industry on local companies. The event will be held from 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 9, Room 209, The Conference Center at Penn State Great Valley, 30 E. Swedesford, Rd., Malvern, Pa.

Speaker Stephen Spivak, a Philadelphia-based entrepreneur who has just opened his online TheWearablesStore.com for business, will examine how the wearable technology industry will provide new opportunities for marketing, development and labor for area businesses as well as its impact on the consumer.

Representatives from several area businesses will also provide insights into their wearable technology experience, followed by a Q&A session and networking opportunity with attendees.

The event costs $29 and includes lunch. A special discount of 25% is available for multiple registrations. More information, register at www.gv.psu.edu. 

Igniting Innovation is an ongoing forum for fostering fresh ideas and connecting with regional professionals sponsored by Penn State Great Valley and the Chester County Economic Development Council. To learn more, visit www.sgps.psu.edu or www.ccedcpa.com.