The LIGHTS Regional Innovation Network is excited to announce a new addition to our ecosystem!
We have a new partner gateway in downtown Portsmouth, Ohio; Shawnee State University launched their Kricker Innovation Hub on September 28th. During the ceremony, the University announced the award of 2.78 million from the Economic Development Administration to fund the renovation and build-out of several floors in the Innovation Hub.
This flagship facility provides access to information, resources, and funding to both help small business grow and bring new businesses to the market. For more information about the Innovation Hub please visit their website, and reach out to their staff! This gateway is another opportunity in our growing ecosystem to provide a ramp for entrepreneurs seeking to turn ideas into new products.
The Kricker Innovation Hub plans to offer more than just a business incubation program, it will become a community space for coworking and business acceleration. Not sure what the difference is?
1. Business Incubation
Business Incubation is office space leased out to businesses, typically startups who don’t need a large traditional office but still need privacy and a professional business environment. Some business incubators focus on specific industry sectors, such as the bio-medical, financial technology, or game development fields
2. Business Accelerator
Business Accelerators might also offer incubation space, but are focused on programs and direct assistance that help high-growth businesses to scale quickly.
3. Coworking Space
Coworking space provides access to resources, but does not have dedicated desk space for individual clients. These spaces are more about the work environment as a flexible office space for freelancers, startups, creative professionals, or anyone that only needs access to an office space a few times a week. It’s like a gym for your business.
To stay involved with the Innovation Hub, you can sign up for emails here.