CR&I Will Use Grant to Expand Incubator

February 5, 2007

The Taylor University Center for Research and Innovation (CR&I) has been awarded $21,450 as a part of a statewide economic development initiative which aims to encourage economic growth for rural Indiana.

The CR&I award was a portion of an overall $150,000 presented to the Grant County Growth Council by Lt. Governor Becky Skillman.

"The Rural Entrepreneurship Grant from the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs will benefit Taylor University and the local community in the area of new venture generation and stimulation." said Dr. Mick Bates, director of the Innovative Enterprise Program. 

Grant money allocated to Taylor University programs will be used to fund the annual regional business plan competitions, which encourages area entrepreneurs through cash prizes, planning support and networking opportunities, while increasing the awareness level of area investors about community-based innovators and helping local businesses grow.

Grant funds will also provide two, one-year Taylor Incubator Membership scholarships, new computers and new software for the CR&I.

According to Bates, "The technology upgrades to the Taylor University Incubator will provide fledgling student, faculty, and community businesses with greater efficiencies and effectiveness in their day-to-day operations. Hopefully, this translates to more successful growth businesses for East Central Indiana."