George Fox University: Fueling Innovation and Entrepreneurship in the Mid-Valley

At a recent Launch Mid-Valley Newberg Coffee Club, we were joined by Shawn Daley from George Fox University, who shared how the university is playing a pivotal role in supporting entrepreneurship, innovation, and workforce development across the region. From hands-on learning spaces to community partnerships, George Fox is creating opportunities that connect students, businesses, and innovators to real-world impact.

Innovation Starts with the Maker Hub

At the heart of George Fox’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is the Maker Hub — a 20,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility where creativity meets craftsmanship. The space provides students and faculty with access to advanced tools and technology to design, prototype, and test ideas. Whether it’s developing a new product or refining an engineering concept, the Maker Hub is where innovation comes to life.

Real-World Problem Solving

Through programs like Servant Engineering and Senior Design, George Fox students are using their skills to make a tangible difference in the community.

• Servant Engineering pairs student teams with real-world challenges — about 20 each year — allowing them to apply their engineering knowledge toward projects with meaningful community impact.

• The Senior Design Course connects students directly with industry partners on sponsored design projects that help bridge the gap between classroom learning and market needs.

These initiatives not only prepare students for successful careers but also bring fresh perspectives and problem-solving power to local businesses.

Supporting AgTech and Bioscience Innovation

George Fox is also helping drive forward-thinking work in agriculture and bioscience. Through the Farm_ng Amiga AgTech Platform, students have access to an advanced autonomous prototyping platform that fuels research and experimentation in precision agriculture. The university’s Oregon Bioscience Collaborations further expand opportunities for research, innovation, and startup growth in one of Oregon’s most promising emerging sectors.

Encouraging the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

Every year, George Fox students step onto the statewide stage at the InventOR Student Competition, a showcase of Oregon’s brightest student innovators. This event highlights the university’s commitment to cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset and helping young founders bring their ideas to market.

Collaboration with the Community

The university’s involvement doesn’t stop on campus. Through the Chehalem Valley Innovation Accelerator, George Fox is helping build stronger connections between students, faculty, and local entrepreneurs — bringing academic expertise and youthful creativity into the regional startup ecosystem.

And for businesses looking to enhance their brand, George Fox’s Department of Art & Design offers a creative resource. Under the leadership of Marvin Eans, Assistant Professor and Director of Internships and Professional Practices, design students are eager to collaborate on community projects — from logo design to packaging rebrands. Local businesses can reach out to Marvin at means@georgefox.edu to explore opportunities.

Building an Innovative Future Together

George Fox University is helping shape a more connected, innovative, and entrepreneurially minded Mid-Willamette Valley. Their programs not only equip students with real-world experience but also give local businesses and startups access to a pipeline of talent, ideas, and creative energy.

Launch Mid-Valley is proud to partner with institutions like George Fox that are helping drive regional innovation — one idea, prototype, and collaboration at a time.