PEORIA, Ill. – An innovation startup hub in downtown Peoria is turning one year old.
A celebration on Fulton Plaza on Thursday marked one year since Distillery Labs opened its doors. The event featured food trucks, vendors, and live music.
Executive Director Doug Cruitt says the hub has been very active in its first year. He says around 250 startups have received help from Distillery, and partnerships have been developed with more than 40 organizations. He says the past year has been about growth for Distillery Labs, and how to invest in the community.
Cruitt says the thing he’s the most proud of is the diversity of the organizations involved in its system, ranging from a variety of Chambers of Commerce to academic institutions to even local radio stations.
Cruitt says for year two and beyond, Distillery Labs will look to become more efficient with digital programs and the use of AI technology.
“You can have a conversation with AI about what’s your startup, what industry are you in, where do you want to go with it, and it will spit out suggested next steps based on local resources, and not just ours,” Cruitt said.
Cruitt says that can include resources at Bradley or a minority business event.
Comments