Our Building
The building, which is owned by the Heartland Commerce and Economic Development Foundation, is managed by the Bradley Technology Commercialization Center. The BTCC assists startup technology oriented companies with business development and funding. The building, which can house up to 27 companies, has 48,000 square feet spread across 3 different levels. Before leasing space, potential tenants must complete a due diligence process to determine their ability to succeed and operate in an incubator environment. Once a company has "graduated" from the Innovation Center it will then move to its own facility in the community.
The Innovation Center is designed to provide a place for entrepreneurs and technologists to commercialize innovative ideas into successful free standing businesses and could also eventually house various facilitation groups providing valuable services for start-up companies. The Innovation Center will leverage the strengths of Caterpillar Inc., the USDA Agriculture Laboratory, Bradley University, and other health-science and technology organizations throughout the region to mature start-up companies to commercial successes. The facility is owned by Heartland Commerce and Economic Development Foundation (a division of the Heartland Partnership), and operated by Bradley University. Caterpillar Inc. and Bradley University will collaborate to occupy the 3rd floor of the Innovation Center as anchor tenants.
Peoria NEXT Mission and Vision: Through collaboration and creativity, Peoria NEXT will facilitate Discovery, Innovation and Commercialization of new technologies for economic development. By 2015 our regional economy will be more diversified and be a desired location for new technology-based businesses.
Our Resources:
- 10 wet labs, 12 dry labs, and 5 office spaces
- Conference and mailroom facilities
- Breakroom and vending areas
- Scientific and business equipment
- Shop area and loading dock
- Broadband Internet, Internet2, and Voice Over IP (VOIP)
- On-site technical support for business software
- Advisory Council Mentor from the BTCC team
- Employers Association membership for duration of tenancy
- Business Development counseling resources
- Access availability to the libraries of Bradley University, USDA National Center for Agricultural Utilization and Research, and the University of Illinois College of Medicine
- Access to resident experts from Peoria NEXT anchor organizations, especially research , scientific, and academic mentors
- Access to conference rooms, break/vending areas, outdoor terrace and commons
- Discount agreements for scientific equipment, supplies, and office furniture
- Complimentary attendance at Innovation Center events and educational forums
- Secured monitored premises
- Premier visibility to investors and partners
- Educational seminars and business development services