OSU-Cascades to discuss ‘innovation district’ plans with business, real estate leaders

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Oregon State University–Cascades will host a meeting for business and real estate executives on Friday, February 4 to discuss plans for an innovation district on the Bend campus.

Dubbed “Market Sounding,” the session will be held in Edward J. Ray Hall on the OSU Cascades campus from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and will also be presented virtually. The session is free but registration is required, the school said in Tuesday’s announcement, which is continued in full below:

The concept of a 24 hectare innovation district was approved by the city of Bend in 2018 as part of the campus planning. The first phase of the district will cover 8 hectares.

The district will bring together university researchers and businesses to accelerate the development of technologies, provide practical opportunities to improve student career readiness, and contribute to the region’s economy and workforce.

The Innovation District will be located in the northeast corner of the 128-acre university campus and will include academic space, light industrial space, office space, restaurants and retail stores, event and performing arts spaces, and outdoor living and gathering areas.

During the meeting, attendees will learn how University Innovation Districts have contributed to local economies in other communities across the country. You will also be informed about real estate development or business opportunities in the OSU-Cascades Innovation District.

Presenters will include representatives from OSU-Cascades, the Bend Chamber of Commerce, Economic Development for Central Oregon and Fratzke Commercial Real Estate Developers.

To learn more or to register, visit osucascades.edu/innovation-district or contact [email protected].