Through a new collaborative initiative announced Sept. 24, the South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA), MUSC and the City of Charleston, unveiled plans and a preliminary building design for an innovation center to be located at 645 Meeting St.
 
This initiative will provide a fully-renovated facility to attract and support start-up companies with wet lab and equipment space primarily in concert with MUSC researchers. With this collaboration, SCRA is fulfilling legislative mandates identified in the Innovation Centers Act focused on commercializing new knowledge-based health care discoveries.
 
“We envision this innovation center will help attract more scientists, generate more research and improve our ability to commercialize intellectual property,” said MUSC President Ray Greenberg, M.D., Ph.D.
 
The property was provided by the City of Charleston through its Cooper River Bridge Community Mitigation Partnership Agreement as part of its commitment to boost economic development and investment for job creation, said Charleston Mayor Joe Riley.
 
The location of the property also is a key location for an innovation center, because it will provide easy access, visibility and economic opportunity for the citizens of Charleston, said Bill Mahoney, SCRA CEO.
 
“Once completed, this facility will be a technology-based cornerstone for the upper Meeting Street area that will complement nearby retail and residential developments,” Mahoney said.
 
SCRA is assisting in infrastructure development at the site and will provide business support, equipment, technology resources and support. SCRA also has pledged to work in collaboration with surrounding schools and develop internships to encourage youth advancement into the higher technology field, Riley said.  

Friday, Oct. 17, 2008