It's industry support for this particular implementation of blockchain tech, which seems to have a validating effect on the larger community surrounding it.
There have been talks/speculation about interaction between the public chain and private chains in an analog to internet/intranet relationships -- that is, being of a common protocol.
The question is, do they use or plan to use this technology in production? I very much doubt that, at least anytime soon. However great opportunity to pump the price :)
I suppose it depends on whether or not their work with other members of the EEA produces anything viable. If not, c'est la vie. It's a step in that direction, though.
I think it's definitely a plus to have industry-experienced groups participating in looking into whether or not the tech is worthwhile. (It's kind of the Jobs-mind to the Wozniaks who dominate the space presently)
There have been talks/speculation about interaction between the public chain and private chains in an analog to internet/intranet relationships -- that is, being of a common protocol.