Polytechnic Institute continues partnership with TechNexus

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. —Additional real-world experience for students is the basis behind early plans between Purdue Polytechnic Institute and TechNexus.

Purdue University and TechNexus signed early agreements to look into collaboration during 2016 and beyond. An agreement was signed a week ago with solid plans for activities expected in late spring.

Gary Bertoline, dean of Purdue's Polytechnic Institute, said both sides worked together previously.

"We've participated in TechNexus initiatives this past year alongside the innovation leaders from dozens of Fortune 500 companies, and we see their venture community as an opportunity for our students to gain industry experience by tackling real-world challenges," Bertoline said.

TechNexus, already established with more than 500 universities, confirmed its interest in working with Purdue.

"Purdue is one of the great engineering and technology schools in the country, and we're particularly interested in the applied technology experience the Polytechnic Institute can develop that’s relevant to our industry partnerships," said Terry Howerton, CEO of TechNexus.

The Chicago-based organization, established in 2007, is a venture collaborative where its network of entrepreneurs, engineers, business leaders and universities help entrepreneurs tackle the problems of existing businesses.

In the last nine years, more than 350 companies have started or grown there at TechNexus. 

Writer: Brian L. Huchel, 765-494-2084, bhuchel@purdue.edu 

Source: Gary Bertoline, 765-494-2552, bertoline@purdue.edu