Chromatin Leases Wet Lab at University Technology Park at IIT

On November 28, 2007, Chromatin, Inc. moved its headquarters and molecular biology research and development operations to the Technology Business Center (TBC) within the University Technology Park at IIT (UTP). Chromatin develops and markets novel proprietary technology that was first developed at the University of Chicago. The company’s technology enables entire chromosomes to be designed and incorporated into plant cells. These mini-chromosomes can be used in any plant to simultaneously introduce multiple genes while maintaining precise control of gene expression. Chromatin’s mini-chromosome technology can be used to deliver genes that benefit the agricultural, nutritional, energy, pharmaceutical, and chemical sectors. Chromatin’s lease includes options to extend the term and to expand into additional space. Chromatin’s recent licensing agreements with leading agriculture companies, as well as the company’s newer activities in the biofuels sector, are expected to spur this growth.

Visit http://www.chromatininc.com for more information.

New Arrivals and Expansions at UTP

UTP at IIT also welcomed IMI Innovations and Red Rabbit Software to its IIT Tower. These two companies join more than 20 technology companies in 200,000 sq. ft. that now call UTP home. They range in size from start-ups employing two individuals to the North American headquarters of Comarch, a Polish software development firm. Employment within the technology park now exceeds 380.

Early Stage Marketplace

UTP’s Technology Business Center (TBC) was the dramatic venue for 170 investors, entrepreneurs, and economic development personnel at the third "Early-Stage Marketplace" held on November 8, 2007. Presentations by 14 early-stage companies seeking angel investment funding followed panel and roundtable discussions with Chicago area angel investors. This all-day event was jointly hosted by IIT’s Jules Knapp Entrepreneurship Center, the Chicagoland Entrepreneurship Center, DePaul University's Coleman Entrepreneurship Center, and the Illinois Innovation Accelerator Fund, an early-stage VC fund. Thanks go to Wexford Science & Technology for donating the use of the TBC.

UTP Neighborhood News

In mid-September, 2007, Mayor Richard M. Daley cut the ribbon for Starbucks Coffee, owned by Magic Johnson. Starbucks joins National City Bank within the retail complex at Park Boulevard at 35th & State Streets directly across from the University Technology Park. Coming soon are Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches and FedExKinkos.

Leasing Contacts

For information about leasing space in the TBC, please contact:
Chad Freese
First Vice President
CB Richard Ellis
312-935-1451
chad.freese@cbre.com

For information about leasing space in the adjacent UTP Incubator or IIT Tower, please contact:

Daniel F. Marselle
Associate Director for Technology & Business Services
University Technology Park at IIT
10 West 35th Street, Suite 10F3 -1
Chicago, IL 60616
312-567-3900
marselle@utp.iit.edu