The National Science Foundation (NSF) was created at the onset of the Cold War in 1950 'to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense; and for other purposes'. Since then, there have been enormous changes in the international and domestic arenas, in the U.S. economy, and in the character of the national innovation system. Moreover, the nation will face substantial economic and social challenges in the future that differ in fundamental ways from those of the past. The NSF created the Partnerships for Innovation (PFI) program in 2000 as part of an effort to build a new foundation for innovation in local communities that is responsive to these changes and emerging challenges. This effort is based on partnerships among universities, industry, and local and regional governments.