The theory is that both institutions, Intel and the university, get front-row seats as the project unfolds, and the close partnership creates an efficient conduit for the bidirectional flow of information.

FORBES: Intel Invests For Everyone's Future

Intel often pays for workers to continue their education at nearby Portland State University.

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The university was the subject of a study in 2004 by computer chip maker Intel which showed how the use of notebook computers had increased from 1.2% of students in 1999 to 35% just four years later.

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