Lasting Impact
A “think and do tank” at the University of Texas since 1977, the IC² Institute is known worldwide for its impactful, interdisciplinary research on the drivers of economic development and shared prosperity. Many of its legacy programs – like the Austin Technology Incubator – serve as models for leaders around the world in their efforts to build entrepreneurial ecosystems and innovation-driven economies.
Innovating Well-Being
Under its new mission, Innovating Well-Being, the Institute continues to engage in research that translates into real-world impact. Today’s IC² Institute is exploring a new, expanded vision of shared prosperity — one that includes key elements of community well-being. We’re prioritizing research that reduces health disparities, advances the responsible development of AI in health care, supports the transition to green energy, promotes community resilience, and ensures equitable access to economic development and entrepreneurship.
Think.
IC² creates opportunities for interdisciplinary research — bringing new insights, energy and purpose to initiatives that advance the well-being economy.
Do.
Established as a “think and do tank,” the Institute has a deep legacy not only of academic research but also of real-world practice. We create programs that test our ideas and impact the world.
Connect and Convene.
Public engagement is central to the mission of IC². Throughout its history, IC² has connected academia, business, and community leaders around bold ideas.
Meet Our Director
“From the study of entrepreneurship to the interdisciplinary work related to revitalizing communities, IC² has been a vibrant source of knowledge and public engagement. Today, there is a growing need to leverage data and new technologies to cultivate an innovation economy predicated on inclusion, health and well-being, and social impact. I see a future in which IC² will be a hub for producing the knowledge, networks and talent needed to do just that. That future is now.”
– S. Craig Watkins
IC² Institute Executive Director S. Craig Watkins
IC² Impact Since 2019
Recent Impact
(Since 2019)
43
UT faculty researchers have received funding from IC².
265
Home to Texas summer interns have served in dozens of communities around the state.
180
Local women- and minority-owned businesses trained through the HUBs program.
105
Undergraduate and graduate students have been hired as researchers with IC².
58
Texas communities have participated in the Regional XLR8 economic recovery program.
12
International scholars have participated in our Visiting Scholars program.