Entrepreneurship: Translational Research in Action

Entrepreneurial students and faculty in the MechSE Department are supported by a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem in The Grainger College of Engineering and across the University of Illinois campus.  As an undergraduate or graduate student in MechSE, you have access to the many resources, work spaces, collaborative facilities, and faculty and staff supporters to help you get your creative ideas or innovative startup off the ground.  

Success and Support 

MechSE is a leader in translational research. Many of our faculty's discoveries in the lab and our students' work in the classroom have been translated into solutions that address real-world problems. A strong culture of support helps ensure innovative startups bring their great ideas to life.  Below are just a few of the resources and facilities available to you starting on day one of your career at Illinois. 

Jason Troutner, Cast 21

Stefan Elbel, foreground, works on an emergency ventilator during the Covid pandemic.

MechSE MakerWorks—a 4,000-sq-ft  “makerspace”—features metal-working and wood-working machines, 3D printers, and much more. This innovative space in the Sidney Lu Mechanical Engineering Building is the place for forward-thinking student entrepreneurs.

MechSE MakerWorks

A degree in Innovation, Leadership, and Engineering Entrepreneurship (ILEE) teaches engineering students to better understand the innovative processes involved in identifying complex technical problems and leading efforts to provide engineering solutions.

ILEE Degree

The EnterpriseWorks technology business incubator at the Research Park supports University of Illinois and community entrepreneurs in all stages of their startup journey.  

EnterpriseWorks Incubator

Want to enroll in entrepreneurship-focused courses?  View the entire list of options,
as well as a myriad of additional resources, on the Illinois Entrepreneurship website.