GROWING NEW JOBS

A MELBOURNE CENTER TO NURTURE SMALL BUSINESS IS SMART FOR BREVARD'S ECONOMY

Oct 26, 2004
You can't grow jobs in a test tube.

But you can spur needed job growth in the kind of center dedicated Monday at Melbourne International Airport after a $1 million infusion of cash from the U.S. Department of Commerce.

It's called a business incubator, and it's designed to provide space at reduced rent for 30 to 35 start-up or expanding businesses when it opens in 2006.

That's exactly the type of edge needed by entrepreneurs hoping to get a grip on success.

The Titusville-based Technological Research and Development Authority, which will oversee the center, was established by the state Legislature in 1987.

It was charged to work with NASA, aerospace companies, the federal government and the Florida Department of Education to promote small businesses and the development of new technologies.

Funds for the center will also come from the TRDA and the city of Melbourne, which will contribute $250,000 to the cause.

That's smart budgeting because business incubation centers around the state have been successful, including one the TRDA opened eight years ago in Titusville.

Called the Florida/NASA Business Incubation Center, its tenants have produced 153 jobs, developed 15 products, and generated $25 million in sales while housing some 28 companies.

The new jobs-growth laboratory could produce similar results down the line, with upwards of 100 high-paying jobs predicted.

That would help the local economy and polish Brevard's image as a birthplace of innovative technology.