Building the Future of Innovation in Bloomington-Normal: A Conversation with Harriet Steinbach
Published: May 23, 2025
On a recent episode of Building BN, host Patrick Hoban sat down with Harriet Steinbach, Director of Innovation and Strategic Partnerships at Illinois State University, to discuss the evolution of entrepreneurship and innovation in the Bloomington-Normal region. Their conversation illuminated not only Harriet’s personal and professional journey but also the ambitious plans shaping the future of local economic development.
From Civic Engagement to Strategic Innovation
Harriet’s roots in Central Illinois run deep. A Rochester native and Eureka College graduate, she moved to Bloomington-Normal in 2002 to pursue a master’s degree in public service at Illinois State University. Since then, she’s worn many hats at ISU—from the Dean of Students Office to the Center for Civic Engagement—always with a strong community-facing focus.
Her current role builds on that foundation, blending university research, public service, and regional partnership. In December 2023, she became the Director of Innovation and Strategic Partnerships, charged with revitalizing ISU’s role in local entrepreneurship.
The Vision for the Bloomington-Normal Innovation Hub
At the heart of the conversation was the Bloomington-Normal Innovation Hub, part of the statewide Illinois Innovation Network. This initiative, launched in 2019 and continued under bipartisan leadership, aims to harness the research power of Illinois’ public universities for economic growth.
Each hub across the state focuses on a unique local initiative. For Bloomington-Normal, the vision centers around a community educational center, business incubator, and makerspace—a collaborative zone where students, startups, and local stakeholders can ideate, innovate, and grow together.
While the original plan for a physical location in Uptown Circle was derailed when the developer pulled out, Harriet is leading efforts to regroup and reimagine. A strategic plan, built on extensive stakeholder input, is guiding the way forward.
Building the Ecosystem—Before the Building
One clear theme from the discussion was Harriet’s emphasis on starting the ecosystem work now, even without a building. Plans are in motion to begin incubator programming by mid-2026, focused on filling gaps, coordinating existing efforts, and avoiding duplication.
A key priority is creating a more integrated support network for entrepreneurs—from students with early-stage ideas to seasoned professionals seeking to scale. “We have good things happening, but in isolation,” Harriet explained. “We want to connect the dots.”
Wet Labs and Startup Infrastructure
Harriet shared her excitement about bringing wet labs—specialized facilities for science startups—to Bloomington-Normal. Currently, no such space exists between Champaign and Peoria. Having this infrastructure could open the door for biotech and advanced research ventures that might otherwise leave the region.
The Funding Gap
Perhaps the most pressing issue: funding. While the vision and talent are in place, the community lacks a robust ecosystem of venture capital, angel investors, and early-stage funding. Harriet and Patrick both emphasized the need to grow local investment networks and make sure promising ideas get the support they need to thrive.
Why Economic Development Matters
Harriet summed it up simply but powerfully: “Economic development matters because it means you care for your community. We can show care by investing in our communities.”
This care isn’t just about infrastructure or funding—it’s about curated serendipity, bringing people together in intentional ways to spark innovation. Whether it’s through partnerships, shared space, or shared purpose, Harriet and her team are laying the groundwork for a more connected and entrepreneurial Bloomington-Normal.
Explore the Vision
Want to learn more about what’s ahead for the Bloomington-Normal Innovation Hub? Read the strategic plan here. BN Hub Strategic Plan.
Listen to the full podcast episode on Spotify!