The Ennovation Center has a great community story. Originally tagged as the Independence Regional Ennovation Center, the building used to house the former Independence Regional Hospital. Located in the heart of Independence, about six blocks from the historic downtown square, this facility served the community and region for over 100 years.    

In 2007 when its closure was announced, the Independence Economic Development Council, Independence School District, the City of Independence and community leaders came together to plan another use for the building. A plan was struck, extensive remodel began, and in October 2010 the Ennovation Center was born. 

Now, business is born here. To date over 160 businesses have begun development and growth at the Ennovation Center.   Today, those businesses account for approximately 95 jobs and about $2.5M in payroll in the community. The Ennovation Center serves the KC Region and Graduates have grown into their own space, contributing to the regional economy. 

Starting and growing a business is risky, hard work. As a business owner you are jumping into a fun, challenging, gritty and creative field. It doesn’t always work and that is painful both emotionally and financially. At the Ennovation Center, we want to give your company every chance it has to succeed. It’s about giving that company, that idea, that entrepreneur the environment to develop the business to the best of your abilities.

Danielle DuPree
Executive Director
ddupree@inedc.biz

Entrepreneurship Enabler

Danielle's Areas of Expertise

• Business Start-Ups

• Digital Transformation
  -IT Strategies

  -Virtual Reality and XR Solutions
  -Artificial Intelligence
  -Workflow Improvements
  -Security
  -ECM​

• Business Retention and Expansion

• Commercial Printing & Packaging

• Social Media & Marketing

• Business Partnerships

Director Profile

Danielle loves helping entrepreneurs grow their business. Her passion lies in working with small business owners and helping them the tools they need to be successful. She spent the past 10 years as a technology business consultant; specializing in workflow improvements, IT, AI, VR and XR. When she’s not helping clients improve and build their businesses, you can find her doing something outdoors with her husband and three children. Danielle enjoys hiking, community volunteerism, networking, playing/coaching her kiddos’ sports and cheering on our Kansas City Royals, Mavericks and Chiefs!

Office Manager Profile

Rachael is a longtime Independence resident and jack-of-all trades. Rachael is excited to get to know you and assist you with your needs here at the Ennovation Center.

Rachael grew up in an entrepreneurial family and has food experience. She loves working with people! She has been a librarian and schools during her career.

Rachael is here to help our wonderful clients with their mail, billing, building repair requests, scheduling and more.

When Rachael isn't working, she enjoys playing sports, playing the piano and being with her children.

Rachael Howen
Office Manager
rhowen@inedc.biz

Entrepreneurship Support

Independence Economic Development Council –   Co-founder of the Ennovation Center

Independence School District –  Co-founder of the Ennovation Center

KC Sourelink -  One stop entrepreneur and business informational shop 

Startland News- Learn about the KC area's start-up community ecosystem

Digital Sandbox - Early-stage tech idea funding

Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC)  – Business development, specialty services 

MidContinent Library – Business classes and research support

City of Independence - Business friendly environment in which to place new start up and grow business

Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation - Exploring education  and entrepreneurship

Independence Chamber of Commerce - Represents a partnership of more than 717 member businesses and professionals committed to making a difference in the Independence community. 

Englewood Arts - Assists the community through development of residential and commercial incentives, public art, art events, art programs, philanthropy and community outreach solutions, which result in a thriving community with engagement and pride.

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Tel: 816-463-3532

Email: info@ennovationcenter.com