The Alan B Levan | NSU Broward Center of Innovation (Levan Center of Innovation) celebrated its second anniversary, a testament to its unique role in the South Florida community. The event, attended by over 200 guests, was a thrilling showcase of the Levan Center of Innovation’s significant impact locally and on a broader scale. The evening was a platform for connections and reflections on the remarkable achievements of the center’s team and members.
The Innovation Center, a dynamic partnership between Nova Southeastern University (NSU) and Broward County, has rapidly emerged as a driving force for innovation, technology, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. Over two years, it has supported 210 founders in establishing 100 companies, filing 16 patents, backing 27 licensed technologies, and introducing over 60 products. The entrepreneurs at the center have successfully secured $5.6 million in investment funds, marking a remarkable beginning to what is poised to be an enduring legacy of achievement and innovation.
“Celebrating two years of groundbreaking innovation at the Levan Center of Innovation is a testament to the incredible progress we have made and the unwavering support of our community in South Florida,” says John Wensveen, Ph.D., NSU’s Chief Innovation Officer and Executive Director of the Alan B. Levan | NSU Broward Center of Innovation. “With the sky as our limit, we are honored to witness the Levan Center of Innovation’s growth and impact, and we are excited to continue establishing South Florida as a premier innovation ecosystem supporting technology and entrepreneurship.”
The event started with an energetic networking session, and the official program commenced with a warm welcome from Wensveen. This was followed by remarks from Alan B. Levan, Chairman, Board of Governors, Alan B. Levan | NSU Broward Center of Innovation. It also featured presentations from three promising entrepreneurs. Andria Beal presented EpiPaws, an epigenetic pet age testing kit. Beth Elletson presented Abe, an HR technology platform designed to securely track, store, and leverage data. Rick Hensbergen presented Esther.ai, a SaaS platform that uses generative AI to automate software testing and debugging, facilitating efficient Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) management. Each entrepreneur shared their innovative projects and visions, highlighting the diverse and forward-thinking initiatives the center supported. A special video message from U.S. Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz emphasized the national relevance and impact of it has, contributing to the celebratory atmosphere of the evening.
