Launching Fall of 2026!

Posted on May 20th, 2026

A New Innovation and Entrepreneurship Program is Coming to Perry Township Schools

Concept rendering promoting a new Perry Township Schools and University of Indianapolis partnership. The graphic features a modern building with the words "Community Challenges," "Student Solutions," and "Lasting Impact" displayed prominently across the facade, alongside the phrases "Launching This Fall," "inspire," and "creating." Perry Township Schools and University of Indianapolis logos appear at the bottom.Perry Township Schools and the University of Indianapolis are partnering to launch an innovation center this fall on the UIndy campus, creating new opportunities for students to work alongside local businesses, mentors, and industry leaders on real-world projects and challenges.

The program will give students hands-on experience in areas like entrepreneurship, design, marketing, engineering, technology, problem-solving, and business development while helping connect classroom learning to future careers.

The innovation center is part of a larger vision to expand career-connected learning opportunities for Perry Township students and strengthen connections between education, business, and the south side community.

The future permanent home for the program is being made possible through a $40 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. generously awarded to Perry Township Schools. The grant supports innovation, entrepreneurship, and expanded career-connected learning opportunities for students across the district.

Through the partnership with UIndy, students will begin participating in programming, partnerships, and collaborative learning experiences starting this fall while plans for the program’s permanent space continue to move forward.

The program will focus on:

  • Innovation and entrepreneurship
  • Business and marketing
  • Design and creative problem-solving
  • Prototyping and product development
  • Real-world business challenges
  • Community and industry partnerships

Businesses, mentors, and community partners interested in getting involved can learn more at:

perryschools.org/innovate/