Illinois Innovation Network

The Illinois Innovation Network is a collaborative effort by the state’s public universities to drive innovation and economic growth throughout the state. Led by the University of Illinois System, the U of I System Office of the Vice President for Economic Development and Innovation is the administrative home of the IIN.

Growing the state's economy through innovation

The Illinois Innovation Network is a system of connected university-community-industry-based hubs throughout the state that will work together to drive innovation along with economic and workforce development across Illinois.

Hubs will utilize a combination of research, public-private partnerships, entrepreneurship and workforce training programs to spur inclusive economic development in their region and across the state.

IIN hubs will both power and leverage the Chicago-based Discovery Partners Institute.

IIN members will be guided by these principles:

• Drive innovation, workforce development and inclusive economic growth throughout the state of Illinois
• Assess and meet regional needs through a combination of collaborative research, public-private partnerships, and entrepreneurship and training programs
• Collaborate with hubs across the state and share best practices
• Advocate for the value of higher education at the state and national levels