The Illinois Innovation Network (IIN) is a system of connected university-community-industry-based hubs throughout the state that will work together to drive innovation, economic development, and workforce development across Illinois. Hubs will utilize a combination of research, public-private partnerships, entrepreneurship, and workforce training programs to spur economic growth in their region and throughout the state.
Initially launched in August 2018 with three IIN hubs, one in each of the University of Illinois campuses, and the Discovery Partners Institute (DPI) in Chicago, the network expanded in May 2019 to include all 12 public universities in the state of Illinois. Each hub will work with public and private partners from its region to develop programs to benefit the local and statewide economy. The work will also be tied to the academic strengths at the host university. Hubs will also collaborate to create a synergy effect in their efforts.
Governor Pritzker announced on February 12, 2020, that the $500 million capital funds appropriated for IIN/DPI will be released, and the construction for DPI will start later in 2020 in Chicago’s south loop.
The IIN Council, led by the University of Illinois System VP of Economic Development and Innovation, oversees and coordinates the system-wide efforts and meets regularly. Dr. Beth Cada, GovState Provost, is GovState’s representative on the IIN Council.