Almost four hundred years ago, the Fundamental Orders of 1638/1639 were written on Connecticut soil. Historians believe they were the first formal constitution in the world. For this reason, Connecticut was nicknamed the “Constitution State.”

Since then, Connecticut has been a cradle of significant achievements and inventions in American history, from the sky To the sea. These developments are chronicled in “Innovation in Connecticut,” a new documentary from UConn’s Werth Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation.

UConn President Radenka Maric initiated the project under the leadership of David Noble, director of the Werth Institute, and Zeljko Mirkovic, associate research professor at the Werth Institute.

In the 53-minute documentary, Mirkovic says, more than 30 people tell their stories “who are doing phenomenal work at the university and elsewhere.”

Interviewees include Maric, Noble, UConn Provost Anne D'Alleva, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Pamir Alpay, Associate Professor of History and Connecticut State Historian Andy Horowitz, former U.S. Senator Chris Dodd, Governor Ned Lamont and many more.

The founders of Connecticut-based companies such as The Junkluggers And Skyre Meet with experts on national history from the New England Air Museum, New Haven Museum and Mark Twain House & Museum and more. Prominent UConn alumni will be profiled, including CEO of Biohaven Pharmaceuticals Vlad Coric; entrepreneur and philanthropist Trisha Bailey; co-managing director of Cantor Colburn LLP Michael Cantor; and attorney, philanthropist, and former chair of the UConn Board of Trustees Coleman Levy.

“It's a story told by the people, it's a story told by the archives – it's a story of proof,” Mirkovic says. “It proves how UConn and Connecticut are creating new value through innovation every day.”

“Innovation in Connecticut” will premiere on Connecticut Public Television and be available to stream online on September 25, 2024. Watch the teaser below: