The Center for Research and Innovation (CRI) Custom College is an off campus facility operated by Bemidji State University and Northwest Technical College designed to increase collaboration between the University, Technical College, business, industry and other sectors of the region. The Center was formed to focus efforts on research, training, education and entrepreneurial needs of the region. Our strategy is simple -- to identify and link resources to cultivate business opportunities. If you have an issue you are trying to resolve, give us a call, we’ll help you find the resource!
Some of the services we provide are:

• Knowledge Clusters – Today’s knowledge economy demands we understand where knowledge is and capitalize on our human resources. Knowledge Clusters provide a networking opportunity that allows knowledge sharing for a particular field. For example, the Regional Employer Support Network provides a means for networking opportunities and support for professionals who deal with human resources issues.
• Corporate and Customized Training – developed to fit YOUR business needs WHEN you need them.
• Non-Profit Development – We firmly believe that non-profit organizations have an enormous impact on regional economic development. Establishing, organization, and managing a non-profit is different than a for-profit business. Our goal is to assist the non-profit in identifying the resources they need to successfully manage their programs.
• Multimedia Development – In today’s “connected world”, the media of choice allows the quick transfer of information – video, data, graphics, or text, to the people that need it when they need it. We can assist you in the development of digital media for training, informational, or collaborative purposes.
• Strategic Organizational Development – From full blown Strategic Planning to Project Management, Teambuilding, Business Process Reengineering, Management and Leadership skills. The Center for Research and Innovation offers a wide array of services designed to help an organization design and implement cost effective approaches to everyday business problems.

Vision Statement:
Located in a regional economic hub, Bemidji State University and Northwest Technical College are strategically positioned to further the social and economic vitality of Northern Minnesota. As the outreach arm of the University and Technical College, The Center for Research and Innovation Custom College will become the regional focal point to bring innovative ideas to fruition, link external resources to Bemidji State University, Northwest Technical College, and MnSCU faculty, staff, and students, and provide services to regional businesses to provide them with the competitive advantage to function in the global marketplace. To accomplish this, the Center must solidify internal and external partnerships, identify unique market opportunities to the University and Technical College, and differentiate from other higher education institutions.

Client Testimonials