Business Incubator A Rousing Success

Research facility’s Phase One sells out; Phase Two planned

(Baton Rouge, LA / November 1, 2005)The new Louisiana Emerging Technology Center (LETC) is sold out and has a waiting list of high-tech clients, according to LETC officials, who say success of the business incubator proves Louisiana is highly attractive as a site for cutting-edge research companies.

“This is a significant step for the future of Louisiana and for LSU,” said Louisiana State University System President William Jenkins.  “LETC will be a hub not only for research and entrepreneurship but also badly needed economic development that capitalizes on the talents of our best and brightest.”

Located on the LSU main campus, the $10 million LETC is designed for use by companies requiring wet lab facilities.  It offers 60,000 square feet of state-of-the-art research labs along with professional resources and expertise to help convert research concepts into marketplace realities.  Specifically, LETC nurtures young companies working in life sciences, biotechnology, environmental and agricultural sciences.  The wet lab also promotes development of technology research among Louisiana universities.

“Our tenants are start-up and early-stage companies requiring wet lab facilities,” said Arthur Cooper, Executive Director of the LETC.  “Plus, we provide access to business professionals, who can help new companies negotiate a maze of issues, ranging from protecting inventions to growing product lines.”

The attractive three-story facility, which is an impressive addition to the LSU campus, sits at the corner of oak-lined South Stadium Drive and East Parker Street, overlooking the LSU lakes, and features an elegant three-story atrium complimented by slate flooring.  LETC’s second floor offers five labs with flexible office space custom finished to meet tenant needs plus an additional 13 individual offices.  At the core of the second floor is a shared laboratory for LETC tenants.  In addition, conference rooms, classrooms, meeting rooms, and a central communications system provide tenants all the amenities usually reserved for seasoned companies.

“Companies locating in the LETC will enjoy a wealth of technical and academic  resources,” said Dr. Jenkins, who also serves as Co-Chairman of the LSU System Research and Technology Foundation, the parent organization of the LETC.  “LSU’s Agriculture Center, Veterinary School and the Pennington Biomedical Research Center are nearby,” he said, adding, “The LETC facilitates greater connectivity with resources in Baton Rouge and across the state.”

According to Cooper, completion of unfinished areas at the facility will be built-out to meet tenant needs and schedules.  “Phase One was a wonderful success,” Cooper said.  “As a result, were planning Phase Two at LETC.  This is clear evidence entrepreneurs agree that LSU is a place to do business.”

For further information on the Louisiana Emerging Technology Center, contact Arthur R. Cooper, 225-615-8904.