Innovation and Economic Development

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Last Updated: Oct 23, 2025, 11:42 AM

New Programs and Events

New Programs

BIOLAUNCH BUSINESS ANNEX

The newest program serving emerging and expanding businesses in the life sciences and value-added agriculture area is located within the Gower Translational Research Center. Incubation services and offices are available and are co-located with laboratory testing and analysis services, providing the perfect opportunity to start or expand with scientific experts and equipment onsite. An event space and boardroom are also available for technology-related activities.

CAREER PATHWAYS

Career Pathways is designed to help individuals develop the fundamental skills needed to succeed in entry-level positions across various industries and prepare participants to enter the workforce with the confidence and abilities required to thrive in these professional roles.

Upcoming Events

Innovation & Entrepreneurship Showcase

4:30-6:30 p.m.

December 4, 2025

Dunn-Richmond Economic Development Center

Enhancing Growth and Building Prosperity through Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Community Engagement

Established 39 years ago, the Office of Innovation and Economic Development (OIED) serves as the University’s primary business development and community engagement outreach arm. OIED offers a comprehensive suite of programs and services designed to support entrepreneurs, innovators, organizations, and communities throughout Southern Illinois with a focus on the 17 southern counties. OIED has a history of success in enhancing growth and building prosperity throughout Southern Illinois. SIU has been supporting the region’s entrepreneurs in job creation, enterprise development and expansion, and strengthening the rural Southern Illinois economy since 1985 with the establishment of the award-winning Illinois Small Business Development Center at SIU. Staff expertise in business start-up and expansion, conventional financing, business consulting, entrepreneurship training, and workforce development have made this program one of the most comprehensive and successful service providers in Illinois.