FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.—Construction has begun on the new Alan B. Levan | NSU Broward Center of Innovation at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale.

With a completion date slated for July 2021, the 54,000-square-foot space will occupy the top floor of the Alvin Sherman Library on the NSU campus.

Professionals involved in the project include ACAI Associates, architecture; P2 Interiors, space planning and design; Sharpe Project Developments, project management; and JWR Construction Solutions, construction—all in collaboration with NSU’s Office of Facilities Management. The project cost is not being disclosed at this time.

The space will be an economic development engine designed to serve the community resulting in a breakthrough ideation, new technologies, job creation, talent skills pipeline, company formation, and scaling of early stage and young startup companies.

“Broward’s businesses, large and small, have great vision and intellectual capacity to build on the rapidly changing landscape around the world,” said Broward County Administrator Bertha Henry, in a statement.

The Center is an economic development engine focused on three themes (Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship) and four pillars (Ideate, Incubate, Accelerate and Post-accelerate).

A comprehensive list of customized programs, events, and wraparound services will act as a catalyst for the region’s innovation ecosystem by attracting new enterprise and providing opportunities for new skills, upskilling, and reskilling.

Highlights of the facility include glass walls to create an open concept, state-of -the-art technology, including Skyfold technology walls, as well as a commercial-grade catering kitchen for event and food-focused entrepreneurs. A key differentiator will be the addition of a purpose-built cybersecurity training range outfitted with a leading-edge technology platform providing instruction opportunities for the NSU community, industry, and potential government partners.

In addition, the Center will offer incubator and accelerator programs for early-stage and young-startup companies; mentoring opportunities; a technology-focused makerspace; a virtual community platform; a showcase and pitch area; technology and innovation skills classes, and more.

“This facility is the missing piece that will push South Florida forward as an innovation ecosystem,” said Keith Koenig, CEO of City Furniture, Chair of the Broward Workshop, and member of the Levan Center’s Board of Governors, in a statement.

“To have a central location in Broward County where entrepreneurs have the resources and support to create, grow and expand their business will help advance our local economy.”

Added Broward County Mayor Steve Geller, in a statement, “My highest priority as mayor is to bring high paying jobs to Broward County. The new Alan B. Levan | NSU Broward Center of Innovation will help to provide the infrastructure to accelerate job growth, particularly in high-tech industries and other careers that require high levels of training and skill.”

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