Innovate, work, shop, dine, play, live – all in one transformative district.
The Marshall IDEA District is a visionary $200+ million initiative at the nexus of Downtown Huntington and Marshall University.
This district is a catalyst for synergistic collaborations between academia and industry leaders, propelling West Virginia into a new era of sustainable economic advancement. This cutting-edge environment, conducive to tech, research, and innovation, enhances Marshall’s talent acquisition strategies, and cultivates a highly skilled workforce, essential for driving continuous professional development within the state.
Brad D. Smith Center for Business & Innovation
This 78,000 SF, $42 million transformative new academic facility opened January 2024, integrating state-of-the-art spaces for education, innovation and entrepreneurship. Serving as Marshall’s College of Business, the programmatic elements include a multi-story forum, a 360-seat auditorium and a 100-seat multipurpose classroom, as well as media and finance labs.
Institute for Cybersecurity
Marshall’s Institute for Cybersecurity, a 73,000 SF cutting-edge facility, is dedicated to accelerating cyber research and development. The mission of the Institute is to create innovative solutions that bolster national security by addressing critical issues swiftly. The Institute shapes the Department of Defense’s current and future cyber workforce through advanced training programs and strategic partnerships. It believes in the power of collaboration among public, private, and academic sectors to drive the development of new technologies that protect global critical infrastructure. The Institute’s commitment extends to implementing proactive, threat informed guidelines that ensure agile and resilient network operations, thereby reducing cyber risk to DoD missions. Through these efforts, the Institute for Cybersecurity aspires to build a secure future, inspire innovation, and lead in global cybersecurity excellence.
Innovation Resource Hub
The Hub: a pivotal space leading business growth and idea commercialization, connecting industry-leading minds to create an ecosystem of advancement.
An innovative space for connecting students, educators, entrepreneurs, researchers and makers with essential entrepreneurial resources and services to help turn ideas into impactful ventures. As part of a cutting-edge facility, the Hub offers comprehensive support designed to empower entrepreneurs in navigating business complexities. The Hub is a highly productive discovery environment, a powerful economic engine and an extremely effective talent magnet.
Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center (MAMC)
MAMC is a national leader in machining, additive manufacturing, welding, apprenticeships and supply chain support.
Through its new 60,000 SF of innovative space and $22 million worth of shared manufacturing and equipment students, entrepreneurs and businesses of any size have the resources to design new products, receive training, and establish scaled production.
Coming soon
Flexible, Innovative Spaces Available
The IDEA District has multiple building and space options for innovative companies and industry partners seeking proximity to and collaboration with Marshall University. Whether the need is a small lab or research space, a medium -size regional office, or a corporate headquarters up to 60,000 sq. ft., the IDEA District offers flexible, customizable spaces that cater to both traditional and open floor plans. Designed to accommodate a variety of operational needs, these modern facilities enhance efficiency, foster collaboration, and support business growth. Strategically located near key partners like Marshall’s Institute for Cyber security, the Innovation Resource Hub, and Marshall Health, it provides an ideal setting for innovation, research, and development. Perfect for businesses focused on growth and advancing their industry.
Contact
Toney Stroud, Esquire
Chief Legal Officer / Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and Corporate Relations
Brandon Dennison
Vice President of Economic and Workforce Development