Updates

One preliminary idea under consideration is an Innovation District on North Campus. It could provide campus a mixed-use region with a focus on research for a diverse array of academic units, and space for interdisciplinary research, startups, industry and governmental partners, retail and other amenities.

The dynamic research happening at U-M, including in biomedical and engineering, could be very attractive to new outside partners. The university is exploring facilities that could create an opportunity for our researchers to work alongside private companies, startups, venture capital, federal agencies and local government partners.

What’s the timeline for design and launch?

The university is still very early in its exploration. No timeline has been established.

When did this concept begin?

The university has begun early explorations of the concept recently, dovetailing with the lead-up to Campus Plan 2050. It is still in the very early stages of development and the concept could evolve.

What would the goals be for an innovation district?

The goal would be to create a dynamic district to add vibrancy to campus and to an innovation hub. The hub would enable U-M to co-locate U-M researchers alongside outside research and technology partners. The wider district around the hub would create a vibrant mixed-use district with the possibility of housing, the arts, retail and other amenities.