Innovation Hub sparks growth and opportunity in Battle Creek

BATTLE CREEK, Mich. — With the sounds of a marching band, the scent of fresh bagels and the energy of a hopeful crowd, a new chapter of opportunity opened in Battle Creek.

On Oct. 9, hundreds gathered downtown for the grand opening of the Battle Creek Innovation Hub — a 31,000-square-foot facility supported by a $10.3 million grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation (WKKF). Created in partnership with Battle Creek Unlimited, the new space will house Grand Valley State University’s (GVSU) expanded southwest Michigan campus in Battle Creek and drive education, workforce training, entrepreneurship and youth programming.

“Battle Creek is our hometown. This is where Mr. Kellogg started our foundation nearly a century ago … and our commitment to our hometown remains unwavering,” said WKKF President and CEO La June Montgomery Tabron. “The opening of Grand Valley State University’s Battle Creek Innovation Hub is a shining example of what happens when we come together with shared vision and purpose. This space is much more than a building. It’s a launch pad for great ideas, a hub for equitable economic growth … a place where education, innovation and community come together.”

It’s not just a building. It’s a bridge. A place where innovation is no longer a distant dream, but a local reality.”

Jonah Hurtado-Macia

program and events coordinator for Battle Creek Food Reimagined

The celebration featured vendors from Battle Creek Food Reimagined, which also will be housed in the hub, as well as community tours, and speeches from local leaders. DelectABLE Treats and Sweets, one of the first tenants, welcomed guests with seasonal bagels and baked goods.

“This is a dream come true,” said owner Felicia Jaramillo, whose business is dedicated to employing people with disabilities. “Everyone is able at DelectABLE… We’re just trying to make more opportunities.”

Long known as the birthplace of the cereal industry, Battle Creek’s legacy of food innovation now finds new expression through the Innovation Hub — a space that connects that creative spirit with modern entrepreneurship.

The building, located at 50 W. Jackson St., will serve as GVSU’s regional center, offering degree and certificate programs aligned with high-demand industries, small business support and STEM-focused youth programming.

“We’re all in,” said Al Shifflett, GVSU’s Southwest Michigan director. “This is an opportunity space… If you have a catalytic idea, this is the hub for you.”

Among those inspired by the opening was Jonah Hurtado-Macia, program and events coordinator for Battle Creek Food Reimagined, who also graduated from GVSU and Battle Creek Public Schools, and received the WKKF-supported Pipeline Scholarship for BCPS graduates attending GVSU.

“It’s not just a building. It’s a bridge,” he said. “A place where innovation is no longer a distant dream, but a local reality.”

GVSU President Philomena Mantella called the hub “a symbol of partnerships, of community and of hope,” adding, “Let’s turn ‘what if’ into ‘what is.’”