Valparaiso University hosted a reception Nov. 1 for the launch of it Collaboratory. The focus was on helping companies learn ways to partner with the initiative to “tackle your industry’s toughest challenges.”

The university received a grant from the U.S. National Science Foundation to create the prototype research program.

The Collaboratory program will increase the university's STEM research capacity. It will also foster student experiential learning and collaboration with regional industry partners.

“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 event offered networking with faculty, students and industry professionals. It also was a platform for explaining research into MedTech, energy and bioremediation and restoration

The Valpo Collaboratory also is integrated with the university's career services, which is a tool for companies to recruit new talent.