INNOVATE AT NSUIC
START HERE AND GO FURTHER.
The Norfolk State University Innovation Center exists to support the entrepreneurial ecology of Hampton Roads. We rely on faculty, practitioners, and investors to help us accomplish our mission of pushing innovative entrepreneurs to new heights.
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About the Center
The Norfolk State University Innovation Center is the brainchild of Glenn Carrington, JD, former Dean of NSU's School of Business. He envisioned creating a center where students, faculty, and minorities in our region could receive access to mainstream resources. With the understanding that minorities receive less than 2% of venture capitalist dollars, Dean Carrington assembled a team of diverse investors, faculty, and professionals to help democratize access to information and capital among underserved communities.
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The Innovation Center was opened in March 2019 with the support of the community, Norfolk State University, the university's Innovation and Research Foundation, The NSU Foundation, and the NSU School of Business.
5 Cornerstones of Action
Entrepreneurship begins with innovation – the conceptualization of novel ideas, products, and services. With the proper foundation, these innovative ideas can be turned into scalable, sustainable businesses. To support this notion, the NSUIC offers the tools and learning opportunities to help individuals become familiar with the concept of innovation and its impact on entrepreneurship. The Center engages community leaders, NSU faculty, and other experts to help shape innovative ideas and provide innovators with the tools they need to establish and grow their businesses.
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Educating the public about innovation and its role in inspiring new businesses and transforming communities.
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Nurturing promising businesses by collaborating with innovative entrepreneurs and connecting them to mentors, consultants, and coaches, thereby increasing the likelihood of their success.
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Connecting innovators and entrepreneurs, creating a community of supportive peers.
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Assembling a vast network of mentors, investors, and consultants to support emerging and growing businesses
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Partnering with other organizations and institutions to broaden the local knowledgebase and maximize available resources.
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The NSUIC believes these 5 actions are critical to achieving its mission of helping local businesses, especially the underserved, reach their fullest potential.
Leadership
Dr. Rhonda
Alexander
Executive Advisor
Dr. Akosua Acheamponmaa
Director