December 2025

Baylor University's Office of Innovation & Economic Development supports institution- wide efforts to increase the quality and quantity of activity and outcomes around innovation, startups, and job creation with an emphasis on enhancing Waco's technology & innovation economic ecosystem.

Applied Research and Tech Development

Texas Legislators Tour Baylor's BRIC

On December 9th, innovation took center stage as Representatives Pat Curry, Giovanni Capriglione, John Lujan, and Hillary Hickland, along with Texas IT Caucus and Transportation Committee staff members, toured the Baylor Research and Innovation Collaborative. David Grover led the delegation through cutting-edge facilities, showcasing how Baylor's research directly advances Texas's strategic objectives. The visit featured presentations from David Grover on the CTCH Cyber Range, Dr. Annette Von Jouanne on the Renewable Energy and Electric Vehicle Lab, Drs. Paul Allison and Bryan Jordan on the PONI Center, and Dr. Scott Koziol on the Neuromorphic and Robotic Systems Lab. The visit showcased how Baylor's research infrastructure is actively advancing state priorities in cybersecurity, sustainable energy, nuclear nonproliferation, and advanced robotics, reinforcing the university's position as a vital contributor to Texas's economic and technological leadership.

CTCH Explores National Partnership Opportunities in Louisiana

The Central Texas Cyber Hub is making strategic moves to strengthen regional cybersecurity capabilities. On December 5th, David Grover joined Dr. Kevin Chambliss, Dr. Craig Moehnke, and Jared Bickenbach for a pivotal visit to the National Cyber Research Park in Bossier City, Louisiana. The delegation met with leaders from the Cyber Innovation Center, StrikeWerks, and the LA Tech Research Institute to exchange insights on K-12 cyber education programs, federal research support structures, and the specialized facilities required for classified research initiatives.

Ecosystem

Building the Future of Cybersecurity

The future of cybersecurity education in Central Texas took a major step forward on December 10th when Chilton ISD celebrated its selection as one of eight school districts chosen for the first cohort of the Central Texas Cyber Hub K-12 Cyber Security Pathways Program. David Grover joined the media day festivities as the district marked this milestone achievement.

Beginning in fall 2026, Chilton high school students will access specialized cybersecurity courses designed to build real-world technical skills. The CTCH K-12 Cyber Security Pathways Program represents more than curriculum expansion—it's a strategic investment in Central Texas's cybersecurity workforce pipeline and a commitment to providing students with clear pathways to high-quality technical careers.

An official announcement featuring all eight selected school districts will be released in the coming weeks.
Read more about how this program is opening doors for Chilton ISD students.

Startup Support

Baylor's Kauffman FastTrac

Last week, we celebrated the conclusion of our 2025 Kauffman FastTrac Cohort. Over the past 10 weeks, our entrepreneurs dove deep into a comprehensive startup curriculum, examining every angle of launching a successful venture.

We are grateful to the local experts who shared their time and expertise throughout our speaker series. Our lineup included successful founders from Helberg BBQ, Yaki, Sendero, The Collective, and Slow Rise, providing real-world insights into starting a business.

Baylor's Director of the Entrepreneurship Clinic, McLennan SBDC Director, and Baylor’s Licensing and Patent Associate also shared key insights in launching a new venture.

We can’t wait to see businesses launch and grow from this course.