From Chandler, AZ Sources
For TNAZ BioScience Special

CHANDLER, Ariz. - The INNOVATIONS Technology Incubator celebrated its grand opening April 30, with Chandler Mayor Boyd Dunn and Mike Proctor, Vice Provost, Outreach and Global Initiatives at the University of Arizona.

INNOVATIONS has exceeded estimates on occupancy. Current tenants include the University of Arizona, InNexus BioScience, ThirdBioTech and Cummings Engineering.

The Chandler City Council approved funding for the Incubator last October in order to bring additional high-wage technology jobs to the community by providing start-up companies space to work and grow. The Incubator gives Chandler the opportunity to grow its own businesses in the cutting-edge fields of biotechnology, bioinformatics, software design, nanotechnology, medical devices and others.

Designed by scientists and technology entrepreneurs, the INNOVATIONS Technology Incubator in Chandler, Arizona offers state-of-the-art facilities, laboratories and a specialized core of services, equipment and support to accelerate success. It is a one-stop-shop for entrepreneurs to have instant turnkey facilities and resources of a large company while preserving their entrepreneurial focus.

Last September, the Chandler City Council voted unanimously to approve an initial investment of $5.7 million in funding for a technology incubator. This action not only demonstrated the City's pro-business attitude, it also showcased Chandler's faith in the innovative thinkers it has always sought to attract. INNOVATIONS provides space to work to viable start-up companies at below market rates as they develop their businesses in the fields of medical devices, biotechnology, bioinformatics, software design, nanotechnology, sustainable technologies and others.

Jeff Morhet, President of ThirdBioTech and President and CEO of InNexus Biotechnology, Inc. is an internationally recognized expert in biotech startups and has agreed to act as an advisor to the facility and assist with the management, launch and strategic efforts, including establishing the facility as a non-profit entity.

INNOVATIONS comes equipped with enhanced mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems, including emergency back-up power. Individual wet and dry labs are secured by card access and contain lab furniture and cabinets, phones, telecom cabling, fume hoods, eye-wash and emergency shower stations. Shared amenities provided include conference rooms and meeting space, -80 degree freezer, glass washer, mechanical equipment, initial gas stock, liquid nitrogen, on-site laboratory supplier and FDA safety officer.

Giving start-ups the infrastructure to innovate is just the beginning. The facility is integrated with industry partners; cost-saving programs and access to academic institutions; workforce - investment funds; and opportunities to showcase the venture on an international scale.

INNOVATIONS Technology Incubator Fuels the Future™ and accelerates the commercialization of technology and innovation. It offers a novel, compelling and truly collaborative blend of services and resources for innovative entrepreneurs of the life sciences and emerging technology industries. The incubator is a one-stop-shop for entrepreneurs to have instant turnkey facilities and resources of a large company while preserving their entrepreneurial focus. Inquiries should be directed to Christine Mackay or Lori Quan at 480-782-3030 or visit http://www.INNOVATIONSincubator.com.