KU Innovation Park names new CEO as business incubator ramps up regional eco devo efforts

LAWRENCE — A longtime financial executive at the KU Innovation Park who successfully led funding efforts for the nonprofit economic development organization’s sprawling campus has been officially named its CEO.

Adam Courtney most recently served as CFO for the Lawrence-based KU Innovation Park before being named interim CEO in September 2023 after the passing of the Park’s founding executive chair, LaVerne Epp.

Adam Courtney, KU Innovation Park

“Adam is a widely respected leader who brings both local knowledge and a fresh perspective to  his new position,” said Dr. Douglas Girod, chancellor of the University of Kansas and chair of  the KU Innovation Park Board of Directors. “For years, KU Innovation Park has been central to  the university’s efforts to drive economic growth in the region, and I know Adam will help us continue to create new companies, jobs and technologies that benefit Kansas and society.” 

KU Innovation Park — which offers lab, office, and co-working facilities — is home to more than 70 companies that employ 680 people, supporting an annual  payroll of $45 million.

From the archives: ‘Brain power’ across the street: How this innovation park hopes to keep university talent in Kansas after graduation

The Park works toward building a more modern, resilient and diverse regional economy for Lawrence, Douglas County and the State of Kansas. A public-private partnership, the Park has four founding partners: Douglas County, the City of Lawrence, the  Chamber of Lawrence and the University of Kansas.

“It’s an honor to be able to lead KU Innovation Park,” said Courtney. “I’m thankful for the  support of our founding partners and am excited to lead the Park team as we continue to drive  innovation, create jobs and contribute to the economic vitality of our region.”

As CEO, Courtney will provide strategic and operational leadership of the Park, including  overseeing business operations, strategic initiatives and resource management, while fostering  the Park’s culture, mission and vision. Courtney will also serve as the Board’s president. 

During his time at the Park, Courtney led the financing efforts for the Phase III building, completed in 2022, including securing funding from the U.S. Economic Development Agency  and the state of Kansas. As chief financial officer, he managed the Park’s financial and  accounting duties, and capital structure and partners. He also works collaboratively with Park  tenant companies in various startup activities, including scaling business operations, writing  business and strategic plans, making collaborative connections and raising capital. 

“I have known Adam since he first arrived at the Park during my term as treasurer of the board  from 2010-2015. His ability to absorb the technical aspects of the many potential innovations  and marketable solutions that flow from the partnership makes him a great ambassador,” said 

Mike Dever, vice mayor of Lawrence and Park board member. “After many years working under  the great LaVerne Epp, he has acquired the understanding of what makes KU Innovation Park special and how to work with the partners to further our mutual objectives.”

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