Technology, Innovation and R&D
Innovate in Mississippi
It’s no secret that businesses, communities and cities thrive through shared learning. That’s why Mississippi puts a high value on education. With eight public universities and four research universities bridging the gap with the local business community, Mississippi businesses have fresh access to innovative talent in their industry.
The Mississippi Research Consortium (MRC) consists of Jackson State University (JSU), Mississippi State University (MSU), the University of Mississippi (UM) and the University of Southern Mississippi (USM). All four institutions have made great strides in working with the local business community to commercialize research and development.
Just like our state tree, startups in Mississippi grow tall, wide, and require very little to thrive. Even so, the state offers a plethora of services to help businesses succeed, including the Entrepreneur Center and a host of business incubators focused on providing young firms with funding and resources.
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Fast Facts


- University of Southern Mississippi
- Mississippi State University
- University of Mississippi
- Jackson State University

Making waves in scientific engineering
In 2020, USM conducted a market assessment to evaluate potential businesses for licensure of a unique biopolymer developed by the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC). The Polymer Institute offers full-service technical and scientific resources for polymer-based material industries.

University research benefitting the masses
Mississippi State University is a national leader in nuclear energy research, and the school recently received federal funding for scholarships to use for research on clean energy. The University was also approved to construct a new Northern Gulf Aquatic Food Research Center designed to develop food safety and security for one of the region’s most profitable industries — seafood. MSU is also home to the Federal Aviation Administration Center for Excellence for Unmanned Aircraft systems, which supports the FAA’s demanding and expansive research needs in a collaborative effort to safely integrate UAS into the U.S. National Airspace System.

Life sciences and manufacturing research prevails
The University of Mississippi Medical Center’s Translational Research Center provides a dedicated incubator space for partnership with businesses in the Life Sciences sector. The Carnegie-designated research university also conducts research in manufacturing at its Center for Manufacturing Excellence, which provides training and support through all facets of manufacturing.

The Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Located at Jackson State University, the center leverages the best of the campuses STEM, business and entrepreneurial capabilities as well as a collaborative potential in addressing some of tech’s most pressing challenges.
Contact
Ready to see where Mighty Mississippi can take you? Contact the Mississippi Development Authority to learn more.

Featured Media
Three counties to participate in Aspire Mississippi 2020
Jackson, Mississippi — June 17, 2020 — Representatives from three counties are participating in this year’s Aspire Mississippi program, which is […]
Mississippi Development Authority accepting applications for 2020 Aspire Mississippi program
Jackson, Mississippi — January 8, 2020 — The Mississippi Development Authority’s Asset Development Division is accepting applications for the 2020 Aspire […]
Six counties participating in 2019-20 Aspire Mississippi program
Jackson, Mississippi — May 29, 2019 — Representatives from six counties throughout the state are participating in Aspire Mississippi, a […]
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