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Commissioners Ask Staff for Workshop on Miramar Innovation Center and Incubator
Summary
Commissioners asked staff to return with a focused workshop to define whether the 2nd Floor will host a Miramar Innovation Center, a small-business incubator, or a hybrid, and to present programming, partnership and revenue models.
Commissioners pressed staff to define what the city's Miramar Innovation Center would look like in practice and whether it should be a distinct innovation center or a small-business incubator tied to existing Economic Development & Housing (EDH) programming.
Commissioner Sherazard cautioned that a 1,800-square-foot allotment may limit what the commission can realistically call an "innovation center" and urged tailoring the space to flow from EDH's existing programs. "We don't have to call it innovation, but we can be innovative with it," Sherazard said, urging customization to local needs. Mayor Massim and staff emphasized programmatic resources already in place (including the Miramar Business Academy) and noted Nova Southeastern University expressed interest in partnership and serving as a program feeder.
Staff outlined an initial incubator footprint of about 900 square feet with an option to grow; they recommended a workshop involving architects, economic development staff and potential partners to clarify allocations, equipment and cost. Commissioners also asked that staff evaluate revenue models (membership fees, rentals, or event space) to reduce net operating cost to the city.
