There's an ACM article with a time-line of new technologies (with company name) followed by date that technology based a billion dollar industry (with company name). I can't find it now but it was interesting because the company name was almost never the same on both lines. It has been a pretty damning history for any company trying to justify basic research.

Not to suggest that basic research is optional, just that it is fundamentally for the greater good. Kernighan seems to get that. He's focused on the needs of his company but also understands what motivates academics. Interesting...