Spanning 1,170 square meters, the hub houses 14 specialized function rooms equipped with the latest tech learning tools. It offers a 360-degree support program for projects with commercial potential and significant societal impact.
“There are many creative Filipinos that only need the right resources to materialize their vision,” said Dr. Michael Alba, president, FEU. “We acknowledge the potential of these young minds and the strength of their abilities, which is why we created the Innovation Center. I am positive that through this new platform, our creative students and teachers will be able to have breakthroughs that will benefit society immensely.”
The facility will serve as a think-tank and incubation center for business ideas. Project proposals will undergo market validation, product development, and prototyping, and intellectual property and management assistance to ensure maximized commercial potential and competitive Technology Readiness Level (TRL).
Complementing the comprehensive programs are the top-notch equipment at the Innovation Center. It boasts of high-speed internet connection that can accommodate complex operations on various software including Canvas, an online Learning Management System. It has a high capacity storage system that can host different computer science and IT projects.
Moving forward, FEU plans to acquire a 3D Printer for prototyping, hybrid and Electrical Transient and Analysis Program (ETAP) to aid in engineering research. Partnerships with industry experts are also in line to help improve the program offerings of the laboratory. The hub is currently exclusive and free for FEU students and faculty. Its doors will eventually open to other interested parties once guidelines are set.
“It is our mission to create a community of leaders and innovators for nation-building,” said Dr. Alba. “By capitalizing on the technical expertise of mentors and tapping the increasingly diversifying start-up ecosystem, we want to empower our students and teachers to be the sparks for change in the world.”