Students at Kennesaw State University’s Marietta campus are gearing up for a fresh start with the opening of a new innovation center. This $60 million facility spans 70,000 square feet and aims to fuel entrepreneurial spirit among students.
Located at 970 Technology Way, the center includes research labs and classrooms tailored for students keen to launch their own businesses. Dr. Karin Scarpinato, who oversees research at KSU, emphasizes that the goal is to encourage collaboration across various fields like energy, digital healthcare, and cybersecurity. By bringing different disciplines together, the center aims to tackle real-world problems effectively.
The main floor will feature a makerspace equipped with tools for hands-on projects, including 3D printers and woodworking equipment. Students can get support from staff as they explore innovative ideas.
Even before the official opening next Friday, April 24, some exciting projects are already in motion. For instance, students are working on an automated wheelchair that responds to voice commands and analyzing traffic patterns using self-driving cars. These initiatives reflect a strong commitment to addressing community needs.
The center’s funding comes from a blend of state support, university investments, and a significant donation from Robin and Doug Shore, who have long championed entrepreneurship at KSU. Dr. Lou Marino, head of KSU’s entrepreneurship school, highlights the center as a hub for all students, regardless of their major, to engage with innovation and impact Georgia’s economy.
Looking ahead to fall 2026, Dr. Scarpinato is eager to see the innovative solutions students will develop. The aim is clear: to address public challenges through focused research and creative thinking. With this new facility, the possibilities for student-led projects are bound to expand.
In recent years, interest in entrepreneurship education has surged across the nation. According to a 2021 report by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), nearly 40% of graduates expressed a desire to start their own businesses. KSU’s innovation center positions its students to capitalize on this trend and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
For more information on entrepreneurship initiatives and educational trends, you can visit the National Academies of Sciences.
