Innovate Albion is a teaching and training center for STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) and robotics in southwest Michigan. A nonprofit organization founded in collaboration with Caster Concepts, Inc. and Conceptual Innovations, we bring together students, educators and professionals to build the next generation of skilled talent in our region.
Innovate Albion (innovatealbion.org), the largest STEM training nonprofit for kids grades K-12 in southwest Michigan, has been awarded a $250,000 grant by state lawmakers. This vital funding, the largest grant Innovate Albion has ever received, will help build an elevator in its 100-year-old headquarters, significantly improving accessibility for all students and visitors.
“This elevator is not just a structural enhancement; it’s a symbol of our commitment to providing equal opportunities for all children to explore and excel in STEM fields,” said Caroline Hurteau, executive director of Innovate Albion.
Since its inception in 2019, Innovate Albion has emerged as a premier hub for students passionate about coding and robotics. Housed in a meticulously refurbished 15,000-square-foot, three-story masonic temple, the tech education center boasts a machine shop, classrooms, and a regulation-size high school FIRST Robotics field. By June 2025, the installation of a new elevator will ensure that all students, regardless of physical ability, can fully access the programs at Innovate Albion.
The $250,000 grant will be combined with additional funds from the Albion Community Foundation ($150,000) and Consumers Energy ($50,000), bringing the total project cost to over $450,000. The elevator will be installed on the northwest side of the building; the site was chosen to circumvent the high costs associated with internally modifying the century-old structure.
“This funding ensures our students and their families have access to all program offerings,” said Shane Williamson, a development consultant for Innovate Albion and executive director of the Albion Community Foundation. “It’s a major step forward in making our facility inclusive and accessible to everyone in the community.”
The funding was secured thanks to the support of Rep. Jim Haadsma. (D- Battle Creek), who sponsored the initiative. “I’m pleased we were able to help fund an elevator at Innovate Albion. Innovate Albion has built partnerships across Calhoun County in pursuit of its mission to spread STEM skills and resources to kids, educators life-long learners in southwest Michigan,” Haadsma said. “The money included in the budget will help make sure these programs are accessible to everyone.”
To learn more about Innovate Albion programs, visit InnovateAlbion.org.
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