What is Peoria NEXT?

Peoria NEXT is a 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit foundation with the purpose of creating a healthier future for the Peoria regional community evidenced by increased economic growth and diversity, physical well being, social stability and opportunity.

What is its goal?

Peoria NEXT hopes to become nationally recognized and by 2015 recognized as the preferred Midwestern location for research, innovation, development, and commercialization of science and technology in the areas of agriculture, engineering, bio-engineering and medicine.

Are the goals realistic?

Yes. The need is real and the formidable assets and resources to achieve them are here. We have a very strong base in healthcare provided by the area hospitals. We have world-class research occurring at BRDC, Caterpillar Inc., NCAUR, and the UICOMP. We have cutting-edge educational opportunities from Bradley, ICC, and the UICOMP and state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure present within each leadership group. Most importantly, we all recognize the benefits of research collaboration, the potential for economic growth, and the results of not achieving the initiative.

Why the interest?

The economic base in the region is stagnant, and the consequences of this condition continuing are not acceptable. Community leaders must assume responsibility for revitalizing the region. Due to the significant assets and resources we have in the science and technology fields, we're well positioned to achieve our objectives.

How and when did the initiative begin?

It began in 2001 with the search for a model for research collaboration to be used in a competitive healthcare environment. A steering committee was formed consisting of Bradley, community and business leaders, EDC, Methodist Medical Center, NCAUR, OSF Saint Francis, Pekin Hospital, Proctor Hospital, state and local government representatives, and UICOMP. Under the Battelle Memorial Institute's Technology Partnership Practice, the research collaboration was broadened to consider the region.

What makes this initiative different from other efforts?

Peoria NEXT is based upon collaboration of local organizations and their resources. The leadership group of Peoria NEXT realizes this initiative is needed and the time is now.

How long will it take to achieve success?

We are already succeeding. The Peoria Next staff and resources are in place. Outreach and networking are occurring daily between Peoria NEXT member organizations, within the community and significant grant and appropriation applications have been made at the local, state, and federal levels. Nearly $5 million has been committed by local individuals and organizations to invest in new technology based start-up businesses in Peoria through a larger venture capital fund already active. Peoria NEXT has also established its first major milestone by partnering zuChem with NCAUR to research and develop new sugar-based products for the development of new pharmaceuticals as well as safe and inexpensive food additives.

Where can I get a copy of the photo showing the bridge and Peoria skyline from the Peoria NEXT website?

Entitled "Dawn of the New Millennium," the photo is a time exposure showing the last sunset of 1999 and the first sunrise of 2000, framing the Robert Michel Bridge. The photo was taken by Fred Zwicky, a staff photographer for the Peoria Journal Star which holds the copyright and granted permission for our use. A poster-sized copy of the photo is available from The Journal Star Store website http://journalstarstore.com/IBS/SimpleCat/Product/asp/product-id/20629.html