Innovate Springfield, the University of Illinois Springfield's hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, and Southern Illinois University School of Medicine have partnered to expand access to specialized research and innovation space in Springfield, creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs, startups and small organizations across central Illinois.

The two institutions will collaborate for the next 10 years to promote and provide access to facilities that support biomedical, biochemical and chemical research.

“This partnership further strengthens Springfield’s biomedical research and innovation ecosystem by connecting our advanced laboratory and research infrastructure with entrepreneurial support,” said Don Torry, PhD, associate dean for research at SIU School of Medicine. “Together, we're opening new doors for discovery, business growth and regional impact.”

SIU School of Medicine offers research and clinical resources rarely found outside large metropolitan areas, including wet-lab space equipped with fume hoods, safety systems, imaging tools and other high-tech core research equipment. These facilities provide critical infrastructure for innovators developing and testing new ideas in biotechnology, chemical sciences and related fields.

Innovate Springfield brings a complementary strength through its entrepreneurial ecosystem. As one of 15 hubs in the Illinois Innovation Network, Innovate Springfield supports business incubation, training, coworking and mentorship that help startups and small businesses grow.

“UIS is excited about what this partnership will mean for entrepreneurs and for the region,” said Bruce Sommer, UIS visiting director of innovation strategy. “Founders should not have to piece together support on their own, and this partnership creates a clear referral pathway, so they can spend less time searching for help and more time building.”

Under the partnership, each institution will independently manage its own facilities while jointly promoting available space to prospective tenants. Entrepreneurs and small research teams will be able to lease space, participate in educational workshops and engage in networking opportunities coordinated through both organizations.

The collaboration reflects a growing national trend in higher education and health care research known as lab-sharing, in which universities provide laboratory access to external partners. For Springfield and surrounding communities, the partnership represents more than shared space—it is an investment in the region’s future health care, education and economic development. By providing access to advanced tools and expertise close to home, the collaboration strengthens central Illinois’ ability to attract talent, foster innovation and improve health outcomes.

Both institutions view the partnership as a model for how universities can collaborate to advance discovery, entrepreneurship and public service.