16 Tech is a 50‑acre innovation district located on the near northwest side of Indianapolis. It was designed to unite researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders in life sciences, technology, advanced manufacturing, and engineering. The district officially opened in August 2020, nearly two decades after the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership (CICP) envisioned a hub to drive collaboration and economic growth.
At the center of 16 Tech is Innovation Building 1, home to the Indiana Biosciences Research Institute (IBRI). The facility offers 68,000 square feet of lab, office, and event space, including 200 lab benches and four open‑space labs. It provides a foundation for startups and established organizations to grow.
Why Does 16 Tech Matter?
You gain access to a district that accelerates innovation across industries. The ecosystem includes:
- The AMP: An artisan marketplace with more than 20 vendors.
- Machyne: A makerspace with workshops, design labs, and media production tools.
- HqO: A startup incubator named after the former Indianapolis Water Company.
The district sits near IU School of Medicine, IU Health, Eskenazi Hospital, and Riley Hospital for Children, creating a powerful intersection of healthcare, academia, and industry. Reports show that Indiana’s life sciences sector contributes $80 billion annually to the state economy, and 16 Tech strengthens this impact.
Who Leads 16 Tech?
The 16 Tech Community Corporation (16 TCC) manages the district. It also oversees the 16 Tech Community Investment Fund, launched in 2019 to provide grants for neighborhood revitalization. The nonprofit ensures that innovation benefits both the district and surrounding communities.
What Role Did Browning Play?
Browning guided the district’s real estate development. Their responsibilities included:
- Negotiating control of a 19‑acre parcel with the City of Indianapolis.
- Leading public planning sessions with hundreds of stakeholders.
- Securing $55 million in TIF support for infrastructure.
- Coordinating with property owners such as Cook Regentec, IU, and Citizens Energy Group.
Browning is now developing ±375,000 square feet of vertical space and ±250 multi‑family units as part of the district’s first phase.
Yes. 16 Tech is central to Indiana’s strategy to become a national leader in biosciences and advanced industries. The district supports over 200 companies and employs more than 1,000 people, according to the 2024–2025 Impact Report.
The IU Launch Accelerator for Biosciences, located within 16 Tech, leverages $1 billion in IU research to drive commercialization. This positions Indiana as a competitive hub for innovation in the Midwest.
What Are the Key Landmarks in 16 Tech?
- 16 Tech Bridge: Connects the district to surrounding neighborhoods.
- 16 Tech Building 1: Anchor facility housing IBRI and other tenants.
- Vanguard at 16 Tech: Collaborative workspace and event venue.
- Purdue 16 Tech: Represents Purdue University’s involvement in the district.
- 16 Tech Map: Highlights buildings, green spaces, and walking trails.
- 16 Tech HqO: Innovation hub offering coworking, incubation, and maker resources.
Final Thoughts
16 Tech is more than a development project. It is a blueprint for innovation in Indianapolis. You find research labs, startup incubators, artisan markets, and green spaces working together to attract talent and drive growth. Whether you are a scientist, entrepreneur, or investor, 16 Tech offers a platform to collaborate, commercialize, and create impact.
FAQs
Q1: What is 16 Tech?
A 50‑acre innovation district in Indianapolis designed to foster collaboration in life sciences, technology, and advanced industries.
Q2: When did 16 Tech open?
The district officially opened on August 4, 2020.
Q3: Who manages 16 Tech?
The 16 Tech Community Corporation (16 TCC) oversees development and community investment.
Q4: What is Innovation Building 1?
A 68,000‑square‑foot facility with labs, offices, and event space, anchored by IBRI.
Q5: What is HqO?
An innovation hub offering coworking, incubation, and maker resources.
Q6: What is Vanguard at 16 Tech?
A collaborative workspace and event venue.
Q7: What amenities are available?
The AMP marketplace, Machyne makerspace, green spaces, and community investment programs.
Q8: Is Indiana a tech hub?
Yes. 16 Tech positions Indianapolis as a growing hub for biosciences and technology.
Q9: What is the 16 Tech bridge?
A pedestrian bridge connecting the district to surrounding neighborhoods.
Q10: How can you find 16 Tech?
Use the 16 Tech map to locate Innovation Building 1, HqO, Vanguard, and other facilities in the Riverside neighborhood.
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