Purdue, WestGate, Crane Joining Forces

Purdue University and the Purdue Research Foundation are joining forces with WestGate Authority and Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division on R&D and technology commercialization efforts throughout Indiana and beyond. As part of the agreement, Purdue will provide programming, intellectual property support and entrepreneurial services for WestGate tenants. The school says it is also exploring partnership opportunities with Indiana University at WestGate.

Purdue Research Foundation Senior Vice President Greg Deason says the collaboration will allow it to infuse what the foundation has learned into a "world-class" entrepreneurship and innovation hub.

Purdue will also provide educational opportunities from the Krannert School of Management and Purdue Polytechnic Institute and startup creation assistance from Purdue Foundry. The two sides have a history of collaboration, including a technology transfer showcase in 2014 and technology transfer collaboration announced in 2015.

Deason says the collaboration "can move the economic development needle" for the region. "Our footprint at the site is already strong," says Deason, "but bringing the full compendium of what we do in West Lafayette will do much to increase commercialization and startup creation.

PRF Chief Entrepreneurial Officer Dan Hasler says he hopes the site will attract collaboration from other state universities. IU Vice President For Engagement Bill Stephan says it is important for the two universities to work together to support education, research and economic development efforts in the region.

WestGate Authority oversees the WestGate@Crane Technology Park, which is located in Greene, Daviess and Martin counties and includes the Battery Innovation Center. Purdue and WestGate will hold a dedication on July 24 to officially launch the partnership.