AURP and The Innovation Foundation at OSU join forces to foster innovation and entrepreneurship

Monday, April 15, 2024

Media Contact: Cody Cramer | The Innovation Foundation at OSU | 405-613-2838 | ccramer@okstate.edu

The Innovation Foundation at Oklahoma State University today announced it has joined the Association of University Research Parks as a Sustaining Institutional Member in a move to advance innovation and entrepreneurship within the university ecosystem. 

AURP, a global nonprofit membership organization representing research parks and innovation districts, is at the forefront of fostering collaboration between academia, industry and government to drive economic growth and innovation. With a global network, AURP provides resources, advocacy and best practices to its member organizations. 

The Innovation Foundation is committed to supporting entrepreneurial endeavors and translating research into real-world solutions. Through its programs, the foundation nurtures startups, fosters industry partnerships and provides access to resources essential for the success of innovation-driven enterprises. 

Through its new membership with AURP, The Innovation Foundation will leverage the strengths of both organizations to create opportunities for researchers, entrepreneurs and industry stakeholders in Oklahoma. By combining AURP's expertise in developing vibrant innovation ecosystems with the local knowledge and resources of The Innovation Foundation, this collaboration aims to accelerate the commercialization of research, attract investment and cultivate a culture of entrepreneurship within the region. 

"We are excited to have The Innovation Foundation at Oklahoma State University join our member network to further our collective mission of driving innovation and economic development," said Vickie Palmer, CEO of AURP. "By providing resources and member connections, we support members to amplify their impact and create a more conducive environment for innovation to flourish; thus, building your dynamic community of innovation." 

Through parallel initiatives, educational programs and networking opportunities, AURP and The Innovation Foundation will work together with AURP’s full membership to propel innovation forward, driving economic prosperity and societal impact. 

“This collaboration aligns perfectly with our commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and driving economic growth,” said Elizabeth Pollard, CEO of The Innovation Foundation. “Together with AURP, we look forward to empowering the next generation of innovators and catalyzing positive change within our community."