Over the last few weeks, being an intern for the GPEDC has already been a very enriching and rewarding experience. Working remotely from Mississippi, I have discovered the reasons behind Peoria’s rich, dynamic, and diverse cultures. It is the quintessential all-American city, which makes it the perfect place to engage with customers and test new products. Unsurprisingly, the Greater Peoria region is host to a myriad of successful businesses.
Lux Blox are a hands-on learning toy designed to help develop problem-solving skills.
Even though it has only been 3 weeks, I have had the privilege to engage with a number of local businesses. Bandit Ball, a local startup whose mission is to get kids outside and play, created the world’s only three-in-one ball that transforms to a frisbee and football. Another local favorite, Lux Blox, has created the next generation of toys to experientially teach science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) concepts through play.
From the outside looking in, it is easy to see why the Greater Peoria region is a safe harbor for startups and small businesses. The community is willing to roll up their sleeves to innovate and reinvent life despite the recent challenges of the coronavirus pandemic. This is why startups will find it easy to grow roots here. I am so glad to be part of the mission, to learn and do meaningful work that contributes to the success of this wonderful and innovative city.
Maeve Rigney, Creative Communications Associate
Maeve is a GPEDC intern working with the Startup Greater Peoria program.