This article is a part of a larger series looking at the First Coast's emerging startups, tech innovators, lenders and players in the region's ecosystem.
The University of North Florida’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (CEI) is Jacksonville’s first equity-free, comprehensive business incubator located in downtown Jacksonville’s urban core in the renovated historic Barnett National Bank building.
Early-stage and startup companies are provided the services, space and support critical to their development for one year at no charge. CEI facilitates this development by offering a variety of programs to nurture selected startups with services including business plan development, co-working space, support from student interns, professional advice and networking opportunities.
CEI functions as a place where entrepreneurs can submit their ideas through an application process to a panel of experts in hopes of being selected to work independently or as part of a cohort. The support is provided by UNF faculty and students as well as through involvement of community members.
CEI also serves as a living-learning lab for UNF students, providing opportunities to learn to assist real entrepreneurs. Students studying business, engineering, health, education, and arts and sciences will have opportunities to participate on intern teams that support the needs of the entrepreneurs and provide incredible learning experiences guided by skilled CEI staff and faculty.
The CEI was made possible by a leading gift of $1 million from Luther and Blanche Coggin. Learn more here; or contact Kara Barber, assistant director, at (904) 620-4019 or kara.barber@unf.edu; or Karen Bowling, director, at (904) 620-4013 or karen.bowling@unf.edu.
