Kunal Patel Tapped to Lead Orange County’s First Innovation Center

Orange County has appointed Kunal Patel, a well-known technologist and innovator, as Innovation Manager for the new Orange County Innovation Center, a 17,000- to 20,000-square-foot facility expected to open at the end of April.

The Innovation Center will open alongside the County’s Multicultural Center and Senior Center, which opened its doors in 2023. The new initiative is designed to promote

creativity, workforce readiness, and cross-industry collaboration by providing a shared space for entrepreneurs, researchers, STEM partners, and community leaders to collaborate on emerging ideas and technologies.

As head of the Innovation Center, Patel will oversee programming, partnerships, facilities, and the development of multiple technology labs. He will also work with Orange County departments to explore internal innovation and identify new approaches to public service delivery.

Officials say the Innovation Center will serve as a dedicated hub for experimentation

and collaboration, offering an open environment where community members can

co-create solutions that address real-world challenges. The Center is a key component

of Mayor Jerry Demings’ vision to transform Orange County into an “Experimental

Prototype Community of Tomorrow.”

The facility will feature a range of labs focused on high-growth and emerging technologies, including robotics, simulation, gaming, content creation, textiles & fashion, maker space, manufacturing and fabrication.

Officials anticipate the Innovation Center will play a significant role in strengthening the

local innovation ecosystem while supporting workforce development and economic

growth throughout the region. Once completed the new center will allow residents to:

• Explore cutting-edge technologies and tools Identify solutions and design-think strategies

• Access to workforce development opportunities

• Foster partnerships among STEM education, start-ups and nonprofits

• Stimulate entrepreneurship and economic development

• The center is intended to serve residents from across Orange County while also bringing

  valuable resources directly into Pine Hills.