New Innovation Center Aims to Boost Mississippi’s Tech Sector

In an effort to boost the local technology sector, a new innovation center was unveiled in Vicksburg, Mississippi on June 27, 2024. Known as the Thad Cochran Mississippi Center for Innovation and Technology (MCITy), the center is a $16 million project that aims to predominantly foster research collaborations, stimulate entrepreneurship, and link academia with the industry to create jobs. The center is a joint venture by the University of Mississippi, ERDCWERX and several other key partners.

About the Thad Cochran Mississippi Center for Innovation and Technology (MCITy)

The MCITy is housed in a converted 1930s building located along the Mississippi River, and boasts a total area of 51,000 square feet. The center comes equipped with several specialized areas, including an entrepreneurial center, a STEM education center, a workforce development center, and a state technology transfer center.

The facility is expected to serve as a central hub for the Vicksburg regional efforts of the Mississippi Research Consortium – a collaboration of Mississippi’s four research universities: University of Southern Mississippi, University of Mississippi, Jackson State University, and Mississippi State University. The consortium is committed to cultivating and upholding nationally competitive research programs across the state.

The Role of MCITy in Boosting Mississippi’s Tech Sector

“MCITy will be a catalyst for economic growth by connecting university research with industry needs and entrepreneurial ventures,” said William Nicholas, the university’s director of economic development and Insight Park. The center is designed to promote creativity and innovation-led economic development, and to create high-paying jobs in emerging fields.

The innovation center was founded with a vision to enhance Mississippi’s high-tech environment and revitalize an economically underprivileged area. It aims to develop a homegrown workforce, highlighting opportunities for technology startups and bringing key economic development elements under one roof.

University’s Contribution to MCITy

The University of Mississippi will contribute to the center’s success by fostering research collaborations with the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Centre and other federal partners to encourage innovation and create high-demand jobs. In addition, the university will also expedite technology transfer and entrepreneur support at the center through its partnership with ERDCWERX.

Staff, faculty, and researchers from the university will have access to the funds provided by the Mississippi Legislature for collaborative projects with the ERDC and the Department of Defense.