The Innovation Connector: Supporting Entrepreneurs in Muncie
By Dr. Jeff Bird
MUNCIE, IN—The Innovation Connector (IC) plays a critical role in fostering business and entrepreneurial initiatives in Muncie and East Central Indiana. Its mission is to support fledgling entrepreneurs as they transform unique business ideas into reality. The IC provides various forms of assistance, including education, workshops, workspace, as well as legal and financial support, fostering a collaborative atmosphere for networking.
Leadership and Growth
The IC is led by Ted Baker, the Executive Director and CEO, who has been with the organization since 2010. The IC traces its origins to a relationship with William Skinner in 2002 and began in a house on Marsh Street, adjacent to a property donated by Ball State University. The first business moved in during 2004, and the organization expanded to three homes on Marsh Street shortly thereafter. Notably, in the same year, the former Aero Forge property was designated as a Certified Tech Park by the State of Indiana.
This site underwent significant development over the years, leading to the establishment of new facilities by companies like Pathologists Associated and Whitinger and Company. The IC relocated to a temporary facility in downtown Muncie in 2006, and by 2009, a permanent 15,000-square-foot facility was constructed at the Ontario Place Certified Tech Park. Baker took on the role of Executive Director in 2010, and the building was expanded in 2013 to include The Landing Zone, a dedicated coworking space, thanks to support from the Community Foundation. Today, the IC serves hundreds of businesses annually with a dedicated team of five.
Community Programs
The Innovation Connector also engages local schools through its TechWise program, which supports STEM learning for K-12 students. This initiative equips students with high-tech skills, preparing them for college and future job markets. Partner organizations, including Ball State University and local philanthropic foundations, bolster the IC’s efforts.
Ted Baker’s Journey
Ted Baker hails from Decatur, IN, where he grew up in a large family with a businessman father. He was active in school, participating in swimming before attending Ball State to study business and marketing, where he continued his swimming career. After graduating, he spent 15 years at American Design and Engineering under the mentorship of James Amos. His career then progressed through various roles, including eight years at Ray Boltz Music. He launched Worldwide Technologies LLC and the Baker Business Group, which led to owning four Sports Clip franchises in Muncie, Fishers, and Fort Wayne. Baker joined the East Central Small Business Development Center in 2008 before coming to the Innovation Connector in 2010, while also teaching entrepreneurship at Ball State since 2011.
Conclusion
Baker and the Innovation Connector represent a unique opportunity for local small businesses and entrepreneurs, providing innovative resources and a supportive network that aims to foster economic growth and success in the region.
