Introduction to FAU Research Park
The research park at Florida Atlantic University is emerging as a significant factor in the growth of Boca Raton, providing a unique environment that fosters innovation and collaboration between businesses and the university. With its proximity to FAU, the research park offers an unparalleled opportunity for companies to leverage the university’s resources, creating a hub for research, development, and industry.
History and Mission of the Research Park
The research park officially began in 1985, with the main mission of working in collaboration with Florida Atlantic University to create an environment that would foster innovative-type companies, assisting with growth by leveraging the university’s resources. Derek Baker, an executive vice president at Colliers, a real estate company now overseeing leasing at the park, emphasized the unique offering of the research park for businesses and tenants interested in such an environment.
Location and Accessibility
Located east of the Boca Raton Airport, at the intersection between FAU Boulevard and Northwest Spanish River Boulevard, and just north of the university, the research park is within walking distance for any students living on campus. This strategic location allows for easy access to the university’s amenities, creating a mixed-use atmosphere that benefits both the tenants and the students.
Amenities and Resources
The tenants of FAU’s research park have access to the university’s resources, such as the gym, conference rooms, and dining options. This access enables an environment for different types of industries, putting them in a position for success that is not typically seen in traditional business parks. The research park caters to a wide range of industries, including research and development, life sciences, healthcare facilities, corporate headquarters, and more.
Employment Opportunities for Students and Residents
Beyond connecting with FAU through the use of its amenities, the research park aims to engage with students by offering internships and full-time employment opportunities. Andrew Duffell, the president of the Florida Atlantic Research and Development Authority, emphasized the importance of creating internships and filling them with students from the university. To incentivize companies, the research and development authority gives each company $1,000 for each internship created, and FAU gives any student who receives a research park internship $1,000 as well.
Involvement of Local Companies and Professors
Jason Sher, a principal with Banyan Development, one of the research park’s landlords, stated that they are targeting firms and companies with a focus on tech, engineering, and healthcare. Before a lease is signed, FAU’s professors and deans weigh in on potential tenants to assess future opportunities. This collaborative approach ensures that the research park is aligned with the university’s goals and objectives.
Conclusion
The FAU Research Park is a unique and innovative environment that provides employment opportunities for students and residents of Boca Raton. With its proximity to the university, access to amenities, and collaborative approach, the research park is poised to become a hub for research, development, and industry in South Florida. As the city continues to grow and develop, the research park is likely to play an increasingly important role in the local economy.
FAQs
- Q: What is the main mission of the FAU Research Park?
A: The main mission of the FAU Research Park is to work in collaboration with Florida Atlantic University to create an environment that fosters innovative-type companies, assisting with growth by leveraging the university’s resources. - Q: What types of industries are catered to in the research park?
A: The research park caters to a wide range of industries, including research and development, life sciences, healthcare facilities, corporate headquarters, and more. - Q: What incentives are offered to companies that create internships for students?
A: The research and development authority gives each company $1,000 for each internship created, and FAU gives any student who receives a research park internship $1,000 as well. - Q: How does the research park involve local companies and professors in the decision-making process?
A: Before a lease is signed, FAU’s professors and deans weigh in on potential tenants to assess future opportunities, ensuring that the research park is aligned with the university’s goals and objectives. - Q: What is the expected impact of the research park on the local economy?
A: The research park is likely to play an increasingly important role in the local economy, providing employment opportunities for students and residents, and fostering innovation and growth in South Florida.Research Park at Florida Atlantic University on Friday, March 21, 2025. (Carline Jean / South Florida Sun Sentinel)
