Project Overview

The Columbus Area Chamber Foundation is collaborating with Elevate Ventures, The Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce, The Mill in Bloomington and other local organizations, to renovate and equip a 9,000-square foot facility into The Propeller Innovation Center. The goal is to provide a space where individuals have access to training, tools and equipment to develop new workforce skills and explore various careers. The Propeller Innovation Center Program will focus on offering classes, led by certified instructors, to support the development of manufacturing, technology, trade and other introductory skills. The program will also allow self-directed and peer-directed learning. The project also provides access to resources such as 3D printers, woodworking and metalworking equipment, and an electronics lab. The classes and training are expected to begin August 2022 and continue until July 2025. Local organizations will provide funding for construction, equipment and facility personnel costs. A key partner is LHP Engineering Services. In addition to support services, LHP has pledged $5 million in venture capital to support the startup of ten new companies in the next three years. READI funding will be used toward facility management costs, training coordination staff and purchase of additional equipment. The program will allow students from the AirPark Columbus Campus and those in the community who are underemployed, an opportunity to obtain additional skills required by area employers.