POST FALLS - The University of Idaho is introducing a new program aimed at boosting the state's economic development.

The Laboratory for Applied Science Research at the University of Idaho Research Park in Post Falls will assist corporate research and development projects by providing university experts and infrastructure.

"The chamber supports small business and entrepreneurs and is excited about this new direction that the university is taking," said Pam Houser, president and CEO of the Post Falls Chamber of Commerce.

Idaho businesses, start-ups, entrepreneurs and inventors are invited to explore the benefits of university-private sector partnerships at an open house from 5-7 p.m. Thursday at the Jacklin Science and Technology Center, 721 Lochsa St.

The open house will provide information about university intellectual and technological assets, and how businesses can access them.

The event will be hosted by Charles Buck, University of Idaho assistant vice president and center executive officer for North Idaho.

"The Jacklin Science and Technology Center is a real gem for our region," said Buck. "This built-for-purpose technology incubator makes available multiple high-end laboratory and office suites for start-up technology companies, and for any company that may benefit from interaction with the expertise and infrastructure of the University of Idaho."

The 30,455 square-foot Jacklin Center currently houses several technology-focused companies as well as university biomolecular detection research projects.

In addition to Thursday's open house, a free business development forum will be held at the Jacklin Science and Technology Center at 4 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 19.

Research Park events

• Today - open house, 5-7 p.m., Jacklin Science and Technology Center, 721 Lochsa St., Post Falls, tours, snacks, drawings, 777-4700, uirp@uidaho.edu, explore the benefits of university-private sector partnerships

• Oct. 19 - business development forum, Jacklin Science and Technology Center, 4 p.m., free, technologies from the Idaho National Laboratory and the University of Idaho presented, Marilyn.Whitney@inl.gov.