Hub

Illinois State University Hub

The hub will be focused on the areas of sustainable natural systems, sustainable social systems, and economic sustainability

A rendering of the 3D printing area
The proposed 3D printing area inside the hub's makerspace

About the hub

Illinois State University will create a hub based on the theme of Socio-Scientific Sustainability and featuring three focus areas: sustainable natural systems, sustainable social systems, and economic sustainability. While the first two areas will assemble numerous existing ISU assets, the third will entail development and construction of a makerspace and educational center, and the Bloomington-Normal Community Startup Incubator. This stands to be the first concerted, large-scale effort in McLean County to support and develop a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship that leads to economic growth.

In partnership with Heartland Community College and local high schools, the makerspace and educational center will provide campus and community members with access to the cities’ only makerspace while providing basic entrepreneurship education programs. It also will serve as an entry point to the ISU community for high school entrepreneurship programs, and will collaborate with HCC to provide workforce development programs that meet local and regional needs.

A rendering of the 3D printing area
The proposed 3D printing area inside the hub's makerspace