The Great Lakes Innovation District for Economic Empowerment (glidE²) will formally introduce its work during a press conference and community open house today at 616 Niagara St.
Founded by Dr. Mark J. Scott, a Niagara Falls South End native whose family still lives in the city, the nonprofit economic and community development corporation is creating an innovation ecosystem that links residents with emerging industries, business ownership, thriving-wage careers, and neighborhood reinvestment.
“I grew up in the South End of Niagara Falls. I know that talent and ambition are not confined to particular neighborhoods, ZIP codes, or income levels. But access to opportunity often is,” Scott said. “I believe the next generation of successful companies, innovators, and entrepreneurs can emerge from Niagara Falls if we create the conditions that allow them to succeed.”
Eleven small businesses, early-stage entrepreneurs and technical experts are already participating in the district’s developing business network at its 10,000-square-foot Innovation Center. Current initiatives include Destination Innovation; healthcare and health-tech innovation; healthcare advanced manufacturing; game innovation and serious play; The Next Part Podcast Studios and its signature production, All Kinds of Progress; housing and neighborhood revitalization; and a multi-day Gaming and Innovation Festival planned for March 2027.
Highmark Health has made an early $250,000 investment in Nexus Niagara: Building a Healthier and More Resilient Western New York, Scott said. The initiative connects healthcare career exploration and entrepreneurship with educational institutions, employers, and emerging health technologies.
The district is partnering with Momentum AI and its founder, Craig Turner, who will serve as the district’s first AI specialist-in-residence and strategic advisor on artificial intelligence. Turner will help develop free, practical AI fundamentals training for 5,000 Niagara Falls residents over two years. The program supports the district’s workforce and entrepreneurship goals.
A press conference will be held at 11:30 a.m. today at the open house at 616 Niagara St. The facility will then be open to the public from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Learn more about the Great Lakes Innovation District for Economic Empowerment at www.glidesquared.org.