Staff Reports | Community Updates
SkySong, the ASU Scottsdale Innovation Center, is marking its 20th anniversary, reflecting two decades of development as a center for technology, entrepreneurship and global business.
The project was developed in partnership between Arizona State University, Plaza Companies and the City of Scottsdale, transforming a former retail site in south Scottsdale into an innovation-focused campus aimed at economic diversification, according to a press release.
When planning began in the mid-2000s, the concept was a departure from traditional commercial development.
“Twenty years ago, when we first began talking about transforming the site of a struggling retail center into an innovation hub, more than a few people were skeptical,” said Sharon Harper, chairman and chief executive officer of Plaza Companies and master developer of SkySong. “Today, SkySong stands as proof that bold ideas and strong partnerships can reshape an economy.”
From its inception, SkySong was intended to function as more than a conventional office park. Its design brought together startups, large corporations, researchers, entrepreneurs and international firms with the goal of encouraging collaboration and economic activity.
Over the past two decades, the campus has attracted companies from the United States and abroad and supports thousands of jobs in fields including technology, global business services and health innovation.
SkySong has also served as an entry point for international companies seeking a U.S. presence while providing Arizona-based startups with access to university research, talent and mentorship.
“SkySong has demonstrated how universities, cities and the private sector can work together to create a powerful engine for innovation,” Ms. Harper said. “It has helped position Arizona as a place where new ideas can grow into global businesses.”
The campus’ shade structure has become a visual landmark in Scottsdale, while its broader economic impact extends beyond the site through job creation and business development across the region.
Project leaders say the campus illustrates the value of sustained investment in knowledge-based industries.
“SkySong represents the kind of forward-thinking investment that helps shape Scottsdale’s economic future,” said Greg Caton, Scottsdale city manager. “For two decades, this partnership has supported high-quality jobs, attracted global businesses and strengthened our position as a leader in innovation. It is a strong example of how collaboration between the public, private and academic sectors delivers lasting value for our community.”
As SkySong enters its third decade, partners say the campus is positioned for continued growth driven by emerging technologies, international connectivity and Arizona State University’s research and innovation initiatives.
“Arizona State University is deeply committed to the success of SkySong and its contribution to the community,” said Dr. Michael M. Crow, ASU president. “One of ASU’s eight regional innovation zones, SkySong brings in global companies, attracts venture capital investment, nurtures startups and combines those with education to create an integrated pathway from idea to scalable business concept. Our shared success over the past 20 years demonstrates the power of partnerships and has produced a potent mix of economic opportunity and impact for Scottsdale and the entire region.”
Plaza Companies serves as master developer of SkySong in partnership with University Realty, the City of Scottsdale and Holualoa Companies.
Economic impact analyses estimate SkySong has generated $58.2 billion in regional economic impact over a 30-year period, contributing to job creation and business activity in the Valley.
“We are very pleased to be part of the success story that is SkySong,” said Steve Lindley, chief operating officer of Holualoa Companies. “This has been a model project for how economic development and innovation can create a positive impact on the business community, and we’re excited to see where SkySong leads the market in the future.”
SkySong is a 42-acre mixed-use development designed to support collaboration among technology companies, researchers and global enterprises while strengthening Arizona’s position in the innovation economy.
