ASU SkySong

ASU SkySong. It is a major innovation center and mixed-use development located in Scottsdale, Arizona, established as a public-private partnership between Arizona State University and the City of Scottsdale. The project is designed to foster collaboration between the university, global corporations, and entrepreneurial startups, serving as a physical hub for the ASU Knowledge Enterprise. Its iconic canopy, designed by Ehrlich Yanai Rhee Chaney Architects, has become a recognizable landmark symbolizing the fusion of education and industry.

Overview

The center operates as a critical component of Arizona State University's economic development strategy, explicitly designed to accelerate technology commercialization and attract international business. It houses a diverse ecosystem that includes corporate research offices, startup incubators, and academic outreach programs under the ASU Foundation. Key initiatives based here are managed by ASU Enterprise Partners and focus on sectors like biotechnology, sustainable energy, and information technology. The architecture, featuring a vast tensile fabric shade structure, was inspired by the concept of a skysong and creates a distinctive identity for the complex within the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community region.

Development and history

The concept originated in the early 2000s from a vision by Arizona State University leadership, including then-President Michael M. Crow, to create a new model for university-driven economic development. The project transformed the former Los Arcos Mall site, with the City of Scottsdale providing crucial land and infrastructure support. Master planning and development were led in partnership with the Plaza Companies, breaking ground in 2005. The first phase, featuring the Arizona State University offices and the signature canopy, opened in 2008, with subsequent phases expanding the leasable office and retail space. The development agreement was structured as a long-term ground lease with the Scottsdale City Council.

Facilities and tenants

The campus comprises multiple Class-A office buildings, collaborative workspaces, conference facilities, and ground-floor retail surrounding a central plaza. Anchor tenants include the global technology services firm Infosys, which established its first U.S. innovation hub here, and the Arizona State University Office of Knowledge Enterprise Development. The SkySong Innovation Center hosts a variety of startups and scale-ups, many participating in programs run by J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute. Other notable occupants have included NantWorks, Avnet, and the Consulate General of Mexico in Phoenix. The Arizona Technology Council also maintains a presence, facilitating networking across the Silicon Desert.

Economic impact and partnerships

It is estimated to have generated billions in direct economic impact for the Phoenix metropolitan area since its inception, supporting thousands of jobs. The model strengthens ties between Arizona State University researchers and industry leaders like Intel, Boeing, and Salt River Project. International partnerships are a hallmark, with the Ireland Institute of Pittsburgh and University of New South Wales having established collaborative programs on site. These alliances are often facilitated through ASU International Development and aim to commercialize research in fields such as nanotechnology and advanced materials, contributing to the state's Arizona Commerce Authority goals.

Management and operations

Day-to-day property management and leasing are handled by the Plaza Companies, while strategic direction and academic programming are overseen by Arizona State University through its Knowledge Enterprise. Financial oversight and investment for the real estate assets often involve ASU Enterprise Partners. The governance structure includes a board with representation from Arizona State University, the City of Scottsdale, and private sector partners. Operations are designed to be sustainable, with the site pursuing certifications from the U.S. Green Building Council and integrating smart building technologies.

Category:Arizona State University Category:Buildings and structures in Scottsdale, Arizona Category:Research institutes in Arizona Category:Technology centers in the United States