Missouri Innovation Center is Awarded a Three-Year, Physical Infrastructure Grant

by Aina Zaresheva - August 8, 2024

Columbia, MO – August 7, 2024 – The Missouri Innovation Center (MIC) is excited to share with our community and stakeholders that the Missouri Technology Corporation (MTC) has awarded a Physical Infrastructure Grant to MIC.

This critical grant program seeks to ensure entrepreneurs throughout the state have access to the physical infrastructure and resources required to launch and grow their businesses. The Missouri Innovation Center operates and manages the MU Life Science Business Incubator located on the campus of the University of Missouri in Columbia. The 33,000 sq. ft. facility features wet laboratories, shared lab equipment and facilities, private and shared offices, conference room spaces, and other resources designed to support start-up and early-stage life science ventures.

Funding from the grant will enable MIC to repair, replace and upgrade essential equipment. Grant funds will also be used to support facility staffing integral to facility operations and exceptional customer service. MIC will also be able to maintain very affordable rates for our clients.

The Missouri Innovation Center recognizes and appreciates the Missouri Technology Corporation for their support of high-growth entrepreneurs as they launch new companies, create quality, high-paying jobs, and provide meaningful benefits for not only our region and state, but for the entire world.

For more information about the Missouri Innovation Center and its upcoming offerings, please visit www.missouriinnovation.com.

Missouri Innovation Center Awarded 2024 Regional Node Grant

by Aina Zaresheva - August 6, 2024

Columbia, MO – August 6, 2024 – The Missouri Innovation Center (MIC) is honored to be one of the six recipients of the 2024 Regional Node Grant, announced by the Missouri Technology Corporation (MTC). This prestigious grant program, designed to bolster innovation and entrepreneurship across Missouri, has allocated a total of $1.3 million to establish and support regional nodes throughout the state.

In partnership with the Missouri Small Business Development Centers (SBDC), Moberly Area Community College, and other area stakeholders, MIC will establish a “Central Missouri Regional Node.” This node will serve as a crucial hub for entrepreneurial activity, acting as a “gateway” to resources that empower entrepreneurs to launch and grow their businesses.

This grant will enable us to bring together key partners and resources to create a cohesive and supportive environment for entrepreneurs in Central Missouri. The node will focus on encouraging the entrepreneurial culture in the region by highlighting the stories of local entrepreneurs and showcasing that successful entrepreneurship is the region. By identifying and curating a comprehensive catalog of entrepreneurial resources, the node will address gaps in the region’s ecosystem and work collaboratively with partners to develop or leverage resources from other regional nodes across the state.

Over the next two years, the grant will be instrumental in establishing and operating the Central Missouri node, which will encompass 25 counties and cover approximately one-fourth of the state. This node will not only provide a central portal for entrepreneurs to access resources but also create spaces for collaboration, idea-sharing, and community building among entrepreneurs.

The Missouri Innovation Center is grateful to the Missouri Technology Corporation for their support and looks forward to working with its partners and the broader community to build a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem that will drive economic growth and foster innovation in the region.

For more information about the Missouri Innovation Center and its upcoming offerings, please visit www.missouriinnovation.com

APPLY FOR OUR AG-POWERUP PROGRAM NOW!!!

by Aina Zaresheva - June 18, 2024

Call for Applications: June 18, 2024 – July 2, 2024

Apply Now

What is AG-POWERUP?

AG-POWERUP (Agricultural Growth Powered by Energy Upstarts) is the latest initiative from the Missouri Innovation Center, designed to support energy entrepreneurs and startups developing innovations for the agricultural and renewable energy sectors. This program is intended to address renewable energy expansion and encourage deep-tech innovation within the agricultural domain, a strategic move for our region given Missouri boasts over 90,000 farms. Consequently, deep-tech energy innovations that positively influence the agricultural sector stand as crucial drivers for advancement in our region. This program offers two tracks, SEED (Start-up Energy Early Development), and GROW (Growth Resources, Opportunities, and Workspace) tailored to distinct stages of startup development, providing resources and support to accelerate growth and success.

SEED

SEED: Start-up Energy Early Development:

SEED is an 8-week hybrid program aimed at early-stage startups. This program is designed to equip startups with a solid foundation for success, emphasizing the importance of customer validation, strategic planning, writing grants, and pitching to investors.

Program Structure:

● Customer Discovery: This process is essential for identifying the first customers and validating the business hypotheses. Startups engage in direct interviews and interactions with potential customers to understand their needs, challenges, and behaviors. The goal is to turn assumptions into testable hypotheses and refine the product or service based on feedback from these interactions.

● Business Model Canvas: This strategic management tool helps startups visualize and describe their business model comprehensively. It covers various aspects like key partners, activities, resources, value propositions, customer relationships, channels, cost structures, and revenue streams. This holistic view is crucial for startups to align their operations with their strategic goals.

● Value Proposition Canvas: This tool dives deeper into two blocks of the Business Model Canvas: customer segments and value propositions. It helps startups articulate the benefits their product or service delivers, addressing customer pains and creating gains. The canvas guides entrepreneurs in designing solutions that align with customer needs and preferences.

● Pitch Deck Development: Startups learn how to create compelling pitch decks that effectively communicate their value proposition, business model, and market potential to investors.

● Strategic Planning: SEED participants engage in strategic planning sessions to set clear, actionable goals and develop roadmaps for achieving them. This planning covers market entry strategies, growth milestones, and risk mitigation tactics.

● SEED Grants: Information on how to apply for and utilize seed grants will be provided. These grants can be crucial for early-stage startups needing financial support to develop prototypes, conduct market research, and cover initial operational costs.

By the end of the SEED Camp, startups will have a validated value proposition, a structured business model, and a clear strategic plan, positioning them for successful pitches and further development.

-Key Dates: The camp will run from July 10, 2024, to September 11, 2024.

GROW

GROW: Growth Resources, Opportunities, and Workspace

GROW is designed for technologies with some seed funding, or start-ups that need lab space for product development, marketing, and commercialization.

Program Structure:

● GROW immerses participants in the local Missouri agricultural and renewable energy sectors, fostering synergistic development of their innovations. Participants receive access to incubator space at reduced costs, strategic planning support from mentors and coaches, access to certain University of Missouri resources, and key connections in the agriculture and energy sectors for demo/pilot testing.

● Networking and Collaboration: GROW will host introductory and networking meetings between participants, incubator residents, investors, stakeholders in agricultural and energy sectors, and other relevant entities based on cohort needs.

● SEED will function as a precursor to GROW, where participants transition into becoming resident Missouri Innovation Center clients marking the first time, we are implementing a two-track feeder program. AG-POWERUP is committed to driving innovation and growth in the agricultural and renewable energy sectors by providing comprehensive support to startups at various stages of development.

The area and the region startups are encouraged to apply for this program. The selected teams will be notified via email on July 5 and further information about the program and schedule will be provided.

AG-POWERUP Application

For any questions or further information please contact:

Aina Zaresheva: [email protected]

Syed Barizuddin: [email protected]

Quinten Messbarger: [email protected]

Announcement of the new Vice president and COO of MIC

by Aina Zaresheva - June 11, 2024

We are delighted to announce that Syed Barizuddin, Ph.D., has accepted the position of Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) at the Missouri Innovation Center (MIC). Dr. Barizuddin brings with him an extensive background in technical expertise, research, innovation, and strategic leadership across diverse STEM fields in both academia and industry.

Dr. Barizuddin is an accomplished professional with considerable experience driving technological advancements and spearheading innovative projects. He has demonstrated a strong capability in securing funding, leading cross-disciplinary teams, and creating impactful technologies that address critical challenges in various fields.

Dr. Barizuddin holds patents in various fields of STEM. He has authored many peer-reviewed publications and has been a senior member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and a review panel member for the National Science Foundation.

In his previous position as Program Director, at the University of Missouri (MBArC/REACH – NIH), Dr. Barizuddin fostered regional collaboration and supported academic researchers across six midwestern states. Earlier, he was the Founder/CEO, of two start-up companies. During his tenure, the company developed ultra-sensitive biosensing technologies, securing competitive funding, and establishing collaborations with global organizations and multinational companies.

Dr. Barizuddin’s appointment as Vice President and COO marks a valuable addition to the Missouri Innovation Center. His expertise and leadership will drive our mission of fostering innovation and supporting the growth of start-ups and technological advancements in the region.

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Syed Barizuddin to his new role. We look forward to his contributions and the continued success of the Missouri Innovation Center.

WE ARE HIRING! Exciting Job Opportunity with MIC

by Aina Zaresheva - April 11, 2024

The Missouri Innovation Center is searching for our next VP/COO.

The primary purpose of this position is to manage two departments, the MU Life Science Business Incubator and the incubation/technology commercialization programs delivered by MIC. Tasks includes operational and fiscal responsibility for a 33,000 sq. ft. lab/office facility and supervision of two full-time staff positions. Additionally, time is spent coaching, mentoring, and otherwise advising entrepreneurial clients on all aspects of business including business planning, licensing, commercialization, and equity financing. This position is responsible for generating revenues from leasing space, contracting with state and/or federal agencies, submitting various grants and receiving these awards. The position interacts and serves various mentor, coaching and teaching roles with related university and community programs including the NSF I-Corps Affiliate and Regional Programs.

To learn more about the Missouri Innovation Center, please view the next several news items and explore the other sections of our website.

To view the job posting (available through the University of Missouri) and to apply,

Select this link to access the MU careers site.
Sign In to access your account; or if you are not an existing user, select the New User link to create one.
Review the job description and select the Apply button to begin your application.

Current University of Missouri employees can access the position here.

Thank you!

MU publishes an article featuring MIC clients

by Aina Zaresheva - April 11, 2024

Hatching high-growth ventures

Mizzou researchers and alumni are working with the Missouri Innovation Center to cultivate and advance their startups.

The University of Missouri is fostering high-growth ventures by leveraging the Missouri Innovation Center to support researchers and alumni in transforming their academic discoveries into commercial successes. With a focus on creating startups that bridge the gap between research and practical applications, the initiative provides a comprehensive support system, including incubation facilities, mentoring, business counseling, and funding opportunities.

Click here to read the full article

🌟 Exciting News: MIC Receives DOE OTT EPIC Round 3, Phase 1 Award! 🌟

by Aina Zaresheva - April 5, 2024

We are thrilled to announce that the Missouri Innovation Center (MIC) has been awarded the prestigious Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Technology Transitions (OTT) EPIC Round 3, Phase 1 Award! The EPIC program, funded by the DOE Office of Technology Transitions, recognizes MIC’s dedication to fostering innovation and driving energy technology advancement.

MIC was awarded for their development of a comprehensive plan to support energy startups and entrepreneurs and define their metrics for success. Now eligible for Phase 2, MIC has the opportunity to implement their novel support plan and create a continuation plan worthy of selection for a cooperative agreement. Selected EPIC Round 3 Phase 2 winners will then be invited to negotiate a cooperative agreement with OTT worth up to $1 million.

This recognition highlights our commitment to accelerating the growth of startups and entrepreneurs in various sectors, including energy technology. With this award, we are poised to expand our efforts in supporting promising startups, fostering partnerships, and driving innovation in the energy sector.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Department of Energy for their support and recognition of our initiatives. We also thank our partners, stakeholders, and the community for their ongoing collaboration and encouragement.

Stay tuned for updates as we embark on this exciting journey towards a brighter, more sustainable future!

About the Department of Energy Office of Technology Transitions

The Department of Energy Office of Technology Transitions (OTT) is one of the largest supporters of technology commercialization in the federal government. Founded in 2015, OTT bolsters the technology industry’s market skills and enables clean energy technologies to progress through research, development, demonstration, and to deployment into the private sector to meet our nation’s climate goals. Visit us at energy.gov/technologytransitions to learn more, and subscribe to receive our latest opportunities and accomplishments via email. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Image source: https://www.energy.gov/sites/default/files/styles/full_article_width/public/2024-04/Final-Lab-MATCH_Phase1_Winners_Map_Corrct.jpg?itok=I05EsGCU

Missouri Innovation Center Awarded MOBEC Operations Grant from Missouri Technology Corporation

by Sheila Baker - February 6, 2024

COLUMBIA, MO – The Missouri Innovation Center (MIC) is honored to be among the eight recipients of the most recently awarded funding through the Missouri Building Entrepreneurial Capacity (MOBEC) grant program by the Missouri Technology Corporation (MTC). As part of MTC’s initiative to enhance Missouri’s innovation economy and entrepreneurial capacity, the MOBEC grant program targets organizations that align with the strategic goals set forth in the MTC Catalyzing Innovation Report, expanding the state’s entrepreneurial capacity and growing its innovation economy.

The MIC’s mission is to support and empower entrepreneurs in Mid-Missouri, aiding in the creation of high-growth ventures that positively impact lives and stimulate the economy. We offer high-growth entrepreneurs access to customized mentoring and coaching and incubation facilities, including wet laboratories, shared lab equipment and resources, and office spaces. Through this MOBEC Operations Grant, MIC will enhance our current incubation support services launching three new pivotal programs to further support the entrepreneurial ecosystem in our region.

The Missouri Innovation Center is grateful for the support from MTC and looks forward to making the most of the MOBEC Operations Grant to enhance our impact. Together, we are paving the way for a more innovative and prosperous Missouri.

For more information about the Missouri Innovation Center and its upcoming programs, please visit www.missouriinnovation.com

Missouri Innovation Center Receives MTC Physical Infrastructure Grant

by Sheila Baker - August 9, 2023

The Missouri Innovation Center (MIC) is proud to be awarded one of six Missouri Technology Corporation (MTC) Physical Infrastructure Grants. MIC, in collaboration with the University of Missouri, manages and operates the MU Life Science Business Incubator. As Central Missouri’s only provider of wet labs and full-cycle, life science commercialization services available to high-growth ventures, this grant is a great win for our entrepreneurs from the community, the University of Missouri, and anyone from afar wanting to take advantage of the outstanding resources available at MIC. Funds from the grant will help us operate, maintain, and improve the 33,000 sq. ft. life science business incubator. MTC grant support is critical in helping us offer below-market rates while delivering exceptional tech commercialization and incubation services. Read more about the MTC grant and recipients at the following link: MTC Announces Physical Infrastructure Grant Recipients – Missouri Technology Corporation

MTC Awardee Physical Infrastructure August 8, 2023

The Internet is Like Water to a Technology Company

by Quinten Messbarger - February 13, 2019

Mediacom Business quenches the thirst of tech startups at the Missouri Innovation Center with a dedicated Gigabit fiber connection.

Bill Turpin, President and CEO of the MIC, said there are minimums for his facility to be a player in the high-tech startup business. “It’s critical for next generation companies to have uninhibited access to the Internet along with reliability, and Mediacom Business has provided the broadband infrastructure that has allowed us to be a player in this space.”

To read the full press release, click here.