Inc.com Selects EnterpriseWorks as a Top 10 Start-up Incubator To Watch

CHAMPAIGN, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Inc.com’s recently published list of 10 start-up incubators to watch featured EnterpriseWorks as one of the “most productive, innovative, and nurturing start-up incubators in the country." EnterpriseWorks, a business incubator for early-stage technology firms located within the Research Park at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, was included in Inc.com's July 15 article, “10 Start-Up Incubators to Watch,” because of its multifaceted approach to working with entrepreneurs and the various opportunities available to start-ups.

“most productive, innovative, and nurturing start-up incubators in the country.”

EnterpriseWorks was lauded for “particular success with information and biotechnology companies.” The article also cited its unique location within the Research Park; as a result, EnterpriseWorks start-ups have the opportunity to interact, network and collaborate with tenants including large corporations and other established firms. Start-up companies also have access to an economically viable, highly talented workforce as they employ many University of Illinois students.

“By working to commercialize U of I research, start-ups at EnterpriseWorks are addressing societal challenges and pursuing transformative results,” said Lawrence Schook, interim Vice President for Research at the University of Illinois. “We are proud of our efforts to support start-ups through hands-on training, funding and grant opportunities, and access to some of the best entrepreneurial minds our community has to offer.”

The Inc.com article specifically mentioned the EnterpriseWorks Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) program, which provides free consulting services by experienced entrepreneurs who have effectively commercialized technology. The EIRs provide a wide array of assistance – at no charge to local technology entrepreneurs – including one-on-one consultations and training workshops. In the past year, the EIRs have conducted more than 200 individual consultations.

“We appreciate the recognition of the accomplishments of EnterpriseWorks in creating an eco-system and support resources conducive for technology commercialization. Our success in launching more than 120 companies since the Research Park opened in 2001 has taken a lot of hard work by the entrepreneurs, the University, the community, and state,” said Laura Frerichs, Director of Research Park.

The article and full list of incubators selected by Inc.com is available at: http://www.inc.com/ss/10-start-up-incubators-to-watch

About the University of Illinois: The University of Illinois is a world leader in research and discovery and the largest educational institution in the state with more than 76,000 students, 5,600 faculty, and campuses in Urbana-Champaign, Chicago and Springfield.

For more information: www.illinois.edu

About the Research Park: The Research Park at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign provides an environment where technology-based businesses can work with faculty and students on collaborative research and development. Located on campus, the Research Park is home to more than 90 companies, employing more than 1,400 people in high-technology careers. The Research Park is a public-private partnership with the University of Illinois and developer Fox/Atkins Development, LLC.

For more information: www.researchpark.illinois.edu

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