Northern Illinois University

NIU is a comprehensive public research university headquartered in DeKalb with a multi‑campus footprint across the Chicago area. Through its Office of Innovation, companies have a single entry point to the university, with options to co‑locate via flexible office and lab leasing and engage faculty and student talent. Regional centers in Naperville, Hoffman Estates and Rockford connect partners to the suburban corporate base, supported by a university‑operated business incubator in Rockford. Research is supported by competitive federal funding and strengthened by collaborations with nearby national laboratories. A dedicated technology transfer office and a university‑affiliated research foundation provide IP management, licensing, sponsored research support and startup services.