Northeast Indiana Innovation Center taps seasoned entrepreneur, innovator as new CEO

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — Local innovators and entrepreneurs have a new champion in their corner. The Northeast Indiana Innovation Center (NIIC) is welcoming John McDonald as its new President and Chief Executive Officer.

McDonald brings more than 30 years of experience as an entrepreneur, innovator, leader and business builder. His past efforts have been rooted in supporting innovation and entrepreneurship including his role as founder and board member of the Indiana Technology & Innovation Association.

As the co-founder of NEXT Studios in Indianapolis, he created a space dedicated to empowering startups. Most recently, as the head of strategy and initiatives at Tulsa Innovation Labs, he promoted a well-connected ecosystem for entrepreneurs through programming, networking opportunities and support offerings.

Additionally, McDonald has served as a board member of the Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce, the Indiana Chamber of Commerce and the NIIC. Considering the NIIC is Fort Wayne’s only Certified Tech Park, McDonald’s unique perspective and devotion to innovation is what the NIIC sees as the perfect blend for its future.

"We’re excited to have John join the NIIC,” said Ron Double, chair of the Board of Directors for the NIIC. “His background in tech and passion for innovation make him a great fit for where our organization is headed. We believe he’ll bring fresh energy and insight into our mission and vision. The NIIC has had an impactful 25 years, and we know John will bring the momentum we need for another 25 successful years. We can’t wait to see what’s next under John’s leadership.”

McDonald will steer the organization toward one clear objective: keep innovation thriving in Northeast Indiana. He will begin strengthening the pathways between innovation, ideas and business ownership while leading new initiatives with the NIIC team. His first platform to share his ideas and concepts will be at the NIIC’s annual event, Innovation@Work slated for Nov. 21 at the Parkview Mirro Center.

For more information about the NIIC and how it supports regional innovation and entrepreneurship, visit niic.net.