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Spark_Lab

The Spark_Lab is a large co-working space designed to ignite creativity and support collaborative innovation, entrepreneurial ideation and prototyping, and small business development. This flexible space provides KSU students, staff, faculty, community members, and local entrepreneurs with the perfect environment to advance their projects, research, or business ventures. 

The Spark_Lab is an evolution of 鶹Ƶ's "Spark Innovation Studio" originally founded by Ken Burhanna (Dean of University Libraries and DI TEAM founding member). The Spark Innovation Studio was the first open makerspace resource on the Kent Campus that was intentionally available for all members of the 鶹Ƶ community and the City of Kent. Facilitated in partnership with 鶹Ƶ’s LaunchNET team, the Spark Innovation Studio was first located in the Schwartz Building in what had been the School of Art’s glass blowing studios. Later, the facility was relocated to Lincoln Rd. at the Northwest corner of campus.

 

Equipment, Features, and Services

Spark_Lab Workstations

ٱپDz: The DI Hub’s Spark_Lab offers DI Hub members access to dedicated, access-controlled workspaces designed to support their research, design, or entrepreneurial projects. For a fee, members can utilize these specialized workstations to foster innovation within a secure and professional coworking environment. Ideal for entrepreneurs and collaborative projects, these workstations provide the perfect setting to bring your ideas to life and drive your ventures forward.

dzپDz:  DI Hub, Spark_Lab (DIH 146)

Workstation Features:  

  • Dedicated flexible workspace (10’ x 13’)

  • Butcher-block worktables (3)

  • Dedicated power access

  • Lockable storage cart

  • Mobile white board

  • Large cutting mat

  • Task stool (30”) 

Coworking Features:

  • Access to the Reactor Makerspace

  • Access to Resource Library tools

  • Desk workstations w/power (6)

  • Kitchenet with fridge/microwave 

  • Compressed air & ventilation

  • KSU guest email accounts

  • Free high-speed Wi-Fi

  • Shared tool bench

  • Utility sink 

Availability:

The DI Hub has five (5) Spark_Lab workstations available on a first-come, first-served basis. Workstations are available to all current DI Hub members (students, staff, faculty, community members, and business partners). Spark_Lab occupants must maintain an active DI Hub membership for the duration of their occupancy.

Access Guidelines:

All Spark_Lab users are granted key-card access to the Spark_Lab (DIH 146) that will enable them to enter the space during regular building hours (daily 7am-11pm). After-hours access is not available.   

Usage Guidelines:

  • User Agreement: All members renting Spark_Lab workstations must sign a “Spark_Lab Space Use Agreement” to verify that they agree to the DI Hub’s Spark_Lab terms of use.

  • Cleanliness: Members must maintain the cleanliness and tidiness of their workstation at all times. This includes disposing of waste and cleaning up spills promptly to ensure a safe and hygienic environment for all users.

  • Hazardous Materials: For safety reasons, workstations may not be used to store hazardous materials or substances. This includes chemicals, flammable items, sharps or cutting tools, heat sources, hydraulic equipment, biological materials, spoilable food, etc. 

  • Liability: The DI Hub is not responsible for any loss or damage to items stored in the Spark_Lab. Members assume full responsibility for their belongings.

  • Cancellation Policy: The DI Hub reserves the right to cancel any Spark_Lab workstation rental at any time for any reason deemed necessary. This may include but is not limited to violations of usage guidelines, safety concerns, or operational needs. 

Rental Period:

Spark_Lab workstation rentals are available on a semester-by-semester basis for KSU students, staff, and faculty, with a maximum rental period of two semesters. Spark_Lab workstation rentals are available on a month-by-month basis for non-KSU community members and corporate partners, with a maximum rental period of 12 months. Extensions may be granted on a case-by-case basis, subject to availability. 

Dz: 

  • $100.00 per semester for KSU students 

  • $250.00 per semester for KSU staff and faculty

  • $100.00 per month for non-KSU community members 

Spark Grants

Designed specifically for students, these grants empower innovators to turn their ideas into reality using the equipment, tools, supplies, and resources available in the DI HUB. Whether you're prototyping an innovative product or solution, participating in a design challenge or competition, researching a new process or application, or creating a unique piece of art, Spark Grants provide the financial support you need to make your project a reality.

Learn More

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