A partnership between Conners State College, Warner, OK and Rural Enterprises of Oklahoma, Inc. (REI) has accomplished the first business incubator on the college campus. Business incubators are spaces to help start-up or expanding businesses develop and grow into job-creating entities.
Ideal for a service or technology-based business, the incubator consists of office space up to 1,880 square feet in two suites. The office space was recently remodeled and has been certified by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce. The certification provides tax incentives to the business. According to Kenneth Norris, REI incubator manager, Oklahoma is the only state offering state income tax exemption to incubator tenants.
Other benefits to the business include reduced rent, high speed internet service, technical assistance and access to all services of REI as well as Conners State College.
We see this as a great opportunity to encourage entrepreneurship, said Dr. Donnie L. Nero, President, Conners State College. REIs experience and expertise in incubator management is going to be a tremendous asset to the project and we appreciate their partnership in this endeavor.
REI will market the facility and serve as business incubator manager. The organization has been managing business incubators for over 25 years and currently manages facilities in 10 Oklahoma communities. REI also offers many other business and community assistance services.
Originally opened as a State School of Agriculture in 1908, Connors State College will be hosting its Centennial Celebration April 26, 2008 which will include a tour of the incubator facility. With 100 years of success and growth behind them, Connors State now operates in three locations, offers seven degree programs and has a diversified group of organizations available to suit the needs of every student.
Norris encourages interested entrepreneurs to contact him at 800-658-2823 about the simple incubator application process.