KINGSTON, R.I. – August 28, 2015 – The Providence Business News has selected the University of Rhode Island’s Business Engagement Center as the winner of its 2015 Innovative Company Award in the education category. The Center, which was established in 2013 to provide the business community with access to the University’s extensive resources, was recognized for its unique “one-stop shop” strategy for engaging local and national companies.

“An increasing number of businesses turn to the University for access to its enormous talent, substantial resources, and excellent facilities,” said Katharine Flynn, director of the Center. “We are extremely pleased that Providence Business News is recognizing the role we play in supporting the business community.”

In its fourth annual awards, the newspaper recognized companies and organizations for their innovation in 10 industry categories — biotechnology and life sciences, education, energy and the environment, financial services, health care, information technology services, manufacturing and construction, nonprofits, professional services and technology. Winners were selected for having a new product or process that has had a significant impact on the marketplace.

The mission of the Business Engagement Center is to enhance industry competitiveness, create jobs, conduct mutually beneficial research, and create a highly-trained workforce. It is designed to play a vital role in providing businesses with sponsored research opportunities, consulting expertise, technology or intellectual property transfer assistance, licensing information, access to the University’s facilities and equipment, students for internships or employment, and customized workforce training and skills development.

The Center is the gateway for industry to connect with URI-based resources and services like the Small Business Development Center, Polaris Manufacturing Extension Program, URI Research Foundation, Collaborative Clinical Placement Team and the College of Engineering Capstone Design Program.

Since its opening in September 2013, the Center has facilitated more than 100 company visits to URI’s campuses, and 75 of those companies have offered URI students internships or permanent jobs. Among the prominent partnerships facilitated through the Business Engagement Center are collaborations with Navatek, Amgen, and Shimadzu Scientific Instruments.

Providence Business News will present the innovation awards at a ceremony Sept. 17 at the Crowne Plaza in Warwick.

Click here for more information about the Business Engagement Center or call Flynn at 401-874-7084.