Furman University launches Innovation Lab
October 1, 2026
iLab combines the Center for Innovative Leadership, graduate studies, and Furman’s institutes to develop leaders, build talent pipelines and drive innovation in SC
Furman University has announced that it is bringing together the Center for Innovative Leadership (CIL), graduate studies and Furman’s institutes into one hub: The Furman Innovation Lab (iLab).
The iLab prepares organizations and individuals to meet the challenges of an evolving global economy, where technological change and rising complexity shape everyday work. For employers, it offers leadership development, innovation facilitation and executive experiences. For individual learners, the iLab provides a learning ecosystem with flexibility for career-long education. Whether they are interested in a one-day program to build leadership skills or a full master’s degree, the iLab has something for every stage of their career.
“South Carolina companies are telling us they need leaders who can build teams, drive innovation and navigate uncertainty, and they need them now,” said Garrett Stern, CIL executive director and co-founder of the iLab. “The iLab is the front porch for all of Furman’s community-facing offerings. Whether we’re working with employers or individuals, all our learning experiences are designed around the problems they’re actually trying to solve.”
The CIL already partners with leading employers across the Upstate, delivering leadership programs, executive experiences and corporate learning solutions. Learning is built around real organizational challenges, not hypotheticals. Likewise, Furman’s institutes focus on critical issues through programs, research and technical support.
The iLab’s new digital front porch, innovationlab.furman.edu, offers a one-stop shop for Furman’s certificates, graduate programs and community-driven initiatives. The website brings the iLab’s work to life, helping businesses and professionals explore its offerings to see how its expertise can support their real-world goals. Beyond its online presence, the Innovation Lab also maintains a physical location inside Flywheel Coworking.
Professional certificates, the newest addition to the roster, give professionals the opportunity to pursue graduate-level education without interrupting their careers. Individuals can progress from a professional certificate into a graduate certificate or master’s degree, building on each step without starting over. For working professionals, it offers career development that accommodates their busy schedules. For employers, it establishes a long-term development infrastructure where investing in a leadership program today connects directly to future learning opportunities.
“We’re creating nimble thinkers: people who can adapt and communicate, build teams, and deal with uncertainty and change,” Beth Pontari, vice president for academic affairs and provost, said. “We’re applying a liberal arts approach to educate and allow people to develop professionally and translating that experience into something they can apply in their jobs.”
What that takes, she said, is partnering with businesses, nonprofits and other organizations to build the talent they’re looking for—from an undergraduate education as a Paladin to professional development, graduate programs and executive education as a working professional. Through that approach, Furman supports South Carolina by developing talent, driving innovation and building future-ready skills in the workforce.
Organizations interested in partnering with the Furman Innovation Lab can learn more and connect with the team at innovationlab.furman.edu.
