About Our Innovation Center
Learn about our mission, vision, and the team behind our innovation and entrepreneurship center.
Empowering Innovators to Create Positive Change
Our mission is to foster innovation and entrepreneurship by providing resources, mentorship, and a supportive community for individuals and teams with transformative ideas. We believe that entrepreneurship is a powerful vehicle for creating positive social, economic, and environmental impact.
We are committed to making entrepreneurship accessible to all, regardless of background or experience, and to supporting ventures that address meaningful challenges in our world.
A Thriving Ecosystem of Innovation
We envision a future where our innovation center is the heart of a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem that generates sustainable solutions to local and global challenges. We aim to be a catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and positive social change in our community and beyond.
By 2030, we aspire to have supported over 500 startups, created 5,000 jobs, and established our region as a recognized hub for innovation in technology, sustainability, and social enterprise.
Our Story
How our innovation center came to be and evolved over time.
The Idea Takes Shape
A group of entrepreneurs, educators, and community leaders came together with a shared vision of creating a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in our region. They recognized the need for a supportive ecosystem to help aspiring entrepreneurs turn their ideas into reality.
Doors Open
After securing initial funding and a physical space, the Innovation Center officially opened its doors. We launched with a small team, a handful of startups, and a big vision. Our first cohort included five startups, three of which are still thriving today.
Expansion and Growth
With growing demand for our programs and services, we expanded to a larger facility and added new programs focused on specific sectors, including healthcare, sustainability, and education technology. Our community grew to include over 50 startups and 100+ mentors.
Adapting to Change
The global pandemic challenged us to reimagine how we support entrepreneurs. We launched virtual programs, created digital resources, and found new ways to foster connection in a remote environment. These innovations allowed us to reach entrepreneurs beyond our geographic area.
Today and Beyond
Today, our Innovation Center is a vibrant hub of activity, supporting over 100 startups annually through various programs and services. We've helped our portfolio companies raise more than $50 million in funding and create hundreds of jobs. As we look to the future, we're focused on expanding our impact and addressing emerging challenges through innovation and entrepreneurship.
Meet Our Team
The dedicated professionals who make our innovation center possible.
Dr. Smith has over 15 years of experience in entrepreneurship education and startup development. Before joining the Innovation Center, she founded two successful tech companies and served as a professor of entrepreneurship at Global University.
Michael oversees all entrepreneurship programs and curriculum development. With a background in venture capital and startup acceleration, he brings valuable insights on scaling early-stage ventures and securing investment.
Sarah leads our efforts to build strategic partnerships with corporations, investors, and community organizations. Her experience in corporate innovation and business development helps create valuable opportunities for our startups.
Our Facilities
Explore the spaces and resources available at our innovation center.
Open workspace with high-speed internet, printing facilities, and meeting areas for startups and entrepreneurs.
Features:
- 24/7 access for members
- High-speed internet
- Meeting booths
- Printing and scanning
Versatile area for workshops, presentations, networking events, and demo days with modern AV equipment.
Features:
- Capacity for 150 people
- State-of-the-art AV equipment
- Flexible seating arrangements
- Catering options
Specialized workspace with tools and equipment for prototyping and testing hardware and physical products.
Features:
- 3D printers
- Laser cutters
- Electronics workstations
- Material testing equipment
Private spaces for team meetings, client presentations, and confidential discussions.
Features:
- Various sizes (4-20 people)
- Video conferencing equipment
- Digital whiteboards
- Online booking system
Ready to Visit Our Center?
Schedule a tour to see our facilities and learn more about how we can support your entrepreneurial journey.