Valparaiso University received a grant from the U.S. National Science Foundation to create a prototype research program.
The grant is part of the foundation’s Growing Research Access for Nationally Transformative Equity and Diversity (GRANTED) initiative. This funding will support the creation of a prototype for the Valparaiso University Research Collaboratory.
The collaboratory program will increase the university's STEM research capacity. It will also foster student experiential learning and collaboration with regional industry partners.
The GRANTED initiative aims to broaden participation in the nation’s research enterprise and create a more inclusive and diverse research environment.
“As an anchor institution in Northwest Indiana, we want to drive economic growth through expanded industry partnerships, enriching our community and creating lasting value for our students, faculty and the Region,” said Marie Foster-Bruns, vice president for advancement and principal investigator for the project, in a press release.
The planning phase will include forming an industry council to help align university research with industry needs. This project's outcomes will serve as a model for similar initiatives at other schools across the nation.
Heather Ennis, Northwest Indiana Forum president and CEO, said the project will impact economic growth in the Region.
“Valpo is creating an environment that will attract new companies and help retain existing ones by enhancing research capacity and forging strong connections between academia and industry,” she said. “This initiative is vital in positioning our Region as a hub for innovation and economic development.”
