Lehigh University is taking a creative approach to promoting … creativity. The school's
Baker Institute for Entrepreneurship, Creativity and Innovation has opened its new Creativity and Innovation Lab, is in the first year of a technical entrepreneurship master's program and recently won a $275,000 federal grant to support Lehigh Valley entrepreneurs.
"Creativity leads to innovation, which drives entrepreneurship [and has] a ripple effect on the economic well being of the surrounding community and region." says Baker's Amy White.
The new lab allows students to develop ideas, from concept through prototyping to product development. Tools of the trade include everything from modeling clay and Legos to a 3-D printer, computer-guided router, mill and lathe.
The lab primarily serves Lehigh's new technical entrepreneurship master's program, whose first class will graduate in May 2013. The program requires students to take a concept to market and actually launch a business.
"What is integral about the grant is how it both supports the local economy and generates student exposure and experience with startup companies," says White.
All highly creative.
Source: Amy White, Baker Institute for Entrepreneurship, Creativity and Innovation
Writer: Elise Vider