Innovation ‘Sandbox’ to Fuel Muncie’s Future

Fallon (middle) says GearBox will serve as a linchpin to the planned maker district.

Organizers of Muncie’s new GearBox maker space say the hub will capitalize on the creativity that is "in the DNA of the people of Muncie." City leaders are already looking to the future potential of the maker movement in the Delaware County city. Sustainable Muncie Corp. Executive Director John Fallon says the group’s ultimate goal is to create a "maker district," bringing together the business and education communities, as well as entrepreneurs working to create everything from digital technology to food and beer innovations.

GearBox is located in the old CINTAS building in downtown Muncie. Fallon says it will serve as a linchpin to the planned maker district. The organization is planning to purchase the building across the street to begin the effort. Fallon says he believes Muncie’s startup community’s potential remains largely untapped.

The project coincides with a push to launch Muncie Verge and bring the "Made in Muncie" mantra back to life. Organizers say the ultimate vision includes residential options for the hub’s creators, resulting in a "constellation of live/work spaces in the community."

GearBox has already attracted significant sponsors, including primary sponsor MutualBank, as well as the Innovation Connector, Muncie Redevelopment Commission, Ball State University and the Muncie Downtown Development Partnership.