The Aberdeen Development Corporation (ADC), with support from the Northern Innovation & Startup Center (NISC), has partnered with the Center on Rural Innovation (CORI) to conduct a feasibility study on the creation of an innovation hub in Aberdeen.
The Northern Innovation & Startup Center currently supports entrepreneurs through the ideation and incubation phases, while the Aberdeen Development Corporation (ADC) focuses on acceleration and scalability. An innovation hub would strengthen the acceleration phase, serving as a bridge between early-stage support and growth resources, helping to foster stronger entrepreneurship and innovation across the region.
An innovation hub is a dedicated space that brings together entrepreneurs, startups, investors, and support organizations under one roof. These hubs often provide shared workspace, access to mentorship and training, and a collaborative environment that helps businesses grow. For Aberdeen, an innovation hub could serve as a launchpad for entrepreneurs ready to scale their ideas, creating new opportunities for businesses to expand and drive economic growth in the region.
“We are excited to explore what’s possible for Aberdeen,” said Tim Hanigan, CEO of the Aberdeen Development Corporation. “This project has the potential to create new opportunities for entrepreneurs to accelerate and scale their business which will strengthen our regional economy and further position our community for long-term growth.”
In mid-August, CORI team members Josh and Alex visited Aberdeen to lead a series of focus groups, gathering input from community members, business leaders, and entrepreneurs. Their insights will help shape the study and determine how an innovation hub could best serve Northeast South Dakota.
Bea Smith, Director at the Northern Innovation & Startup Center said, “This project builds on the work already happening at the Startup Center, where entrepreneurs are developing their business ideas through workshops and incubation programs. By adding an innovation hub, we can give founders the space, resources, and connections they need to move from early-stage ideas to growing, sustainable businesses”
Funding for the study is made possible through grants from the Knight Foundation, the Aberdeen Area Community Foundation, and the Trust for Civic Life, along with support approved by the ADC Board of Directors to cover the remaining costs.
The Aberdeen Development Corporation will continue to gather input throughout the study and encourages anyone interested in sharing their perspective to contact the ADC directly at 605-225-5335.
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