GSD Awarded $5M for New Entrepreneurial and Innovation Center

Grenada School District was granted $5 million in additional funding from the State of Mississippi during the May 2024 legislative session. The funds were awarded based on a proposal to confront the community’s growing population and workforce needs by establishing a dynamic new learning program, the Entrepreneurial and Innovation Center (EIC).

Projected to open for students in the 2026-2027 school year, the EIC will serve as GSD’s outstanding learning environment for fostering entrepreneurship and innovation.

The state legislature’s funding makes it possible to conduct significant renovations to a district-owned property, the 30,000 square-foot building that formerly housed the Daily Star and will serve as the EIC’s home. 

Among the planned features of the EIC, which were outlined in the district’s proposal, are an expanded Advanced Manufacturing program, a Tiny House project in conjunction with Mississippi State University, an Entrepreneurial Center, a Virtual Reality Learning Lab, and a stationary FAB Lab that will extend the functionality of the existing mobile lab. 

With a robust plan of action, the district reached out to Representative Kevin Horan, who guided the proposal through the legislative processes. The resulting approval and projected funds will provide essential support for the program and “pave the way for a new chapter in education in Grenada.”

District Superintendent Dr. David Daigneault said, “The funding allocated for this center demonstrates a commitment to investing in the future of our students and empowering them to pursue advanced job opportunities and career goals.”

The community’s growing job market in advanced manufacturing, energy, healthcare, information technology, and logistics offers rewarding opportunities for individuals with diverse skills. With or without a college degree, GSD students will have the opportunity through the EIC and enhanced Career and Technical Center programs to prepare for career success in these tech-driven sectors.  

Going a step further, the EIC will provide vital support to entrepreneurs and lifelong learners, playing a key role in driving inclusive economic growth and helping establish the county as a pivotal hub in the region.

“This initiative highlights the importance of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in education, ensuring that our students are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a competitive global economy,” Daigneault said. “We are grateful for the community's support and look forward to the positive impact the Entrepreneurial & Innovation Center will have on our students, educators, and partners alike.”