The Commercialization and Manufacturing Excellence Center (CMEC) at Purdue University Northwest (PNW) received a $10,000 donation from Old National Bank to support commercialization efforts for women entrepreneurs operating at the center.
CMEC at PNW acts as a catalyst for economic development and technology transfer by providing advanced manufacturing capabilities, fostering entrepreneurial ventures, and providing related training opportunities. Through CMEC’s Concept-to-Commercialization (C2C) program, talented entrepreneurs are guided and supported to bring their innovations to market.
CMEC has provided compelling evidence that it supports women entrepreneurs and increases their representation among local innovators. Historically, 8 of the 10 most successful entrepreneurial ventures supported through the C2C program have been led by women. Among these entrepreneurs, 7 out of 8 are women of color.
With the support of Old National Bank’s donation, CMEC can continue to recruit and support successful women entrepreneurs who seek to commercialize their visions and create fundamental change in the business landscape in Northwest Indiana.
“Old National Bank’s generous donation is important not only because it supports local entrepreneurs to achieve their goals, but also because it focuses on supporting underrepresented groups,” said Niaz Latif, Deputy Chancellor for Commercialization and Research and Executive Director of CMEC. “Individuals with innovative ideas will receive valuable support in developing marketable products and establishing companies to commercialize their visions.”
“Old National Bank is proud to support Purdue University Northwest’s Commercialization and Manufacturing Excellence Center and its work to advance women entrepreneurs and underrepresented groups,” said Monica Rubio, Old National Community Lending Market Executive, VP and NWI Market President. “We can’t wait to see applications from these women entrepreneurs and future leaders.”
