SkySong, The ASU Scottsdale Innovation Center is celebrating its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of growth from a bold concept into one of Arizona’s most influential hubs for technology, entrepreneurship and global business.
The project, developed through a partnership between Plaza Companies, Arizona State University and the City of Scottsdale, was launched in the mid-2000s with an ambitious goal: transform the site of a declining retail center in south Scottsdale into a dynamic innovation campus that would help diversify Arizona’s economy.
At the time, the concept was far from certain.
“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 CEO 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 earliest days, SkySong was envisioned as more than a traditional office development. The campus was designed to bring together startups, Fortune 500 companies, researchers, entrepreneurs, students and international firms in a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and economic growth.
Over the past two decades, that vision has translated into measurable impact. SkySong has attracted companies from around the world and supports thousands of high-quality jobs in industries including advanced technology, global business services and health innovation.
The project has also become an important gateway for international companies establishing a presence in the United States, while providing Arizona-based startups with access to university research, talent and mentorship. This ecosystem has helped strengthen the state’s competitiveness in the global innovation economy.
“SkySong has demonstrated how universities, cities and the private sector can work together to create a powerful engine for innovation,” Harper said. “It has helped position Arizona as a place where new ideas can grow into global businesses.”
The campus’ distinctive shade structure has become a recognizable landmark in Scottsdale and a symbol of the collaboration and creativity that take place there every day. But its broader impact extends far beyond the campus itself, contributing to job creation, entrepreneurship and economic activity throughout the region.
Leaders involved in the project say its success also reflects the importance of long-term investment in knowledge-based industries.
“SkySong represents the kind of forward-thinking investment that helps shape Scottsdale’s economic future,” said Scottsdale City Manager Greg Caton. “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 marks its 20th anniversary, its partners say the campus is well positioned for the future. Continued growth in emerging technologies, global connectivity and the expanding role of Arizona State University in innovation and research are expected to drive the next phase of development.
“Arizona State University is deeply committed to the success of SkySong and its contribution to the community,” said ASU President Michael M. Crow. “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 is the master developer of SkySong, in partnership with University Realty, the City of Scottsdale and Holualoa Companies.
Economic impact studies have found that SkySong “is a job creator with outsized ripple effects” on economic development in the region, with an estimated impact of $58.2 billion over 30 years and with even more value as a brand representing innovation and entrepreneurship.
“We are very pleased to be part of the success story that is SkySong,” said Steve Lindley, Chief Operating Officer with 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.”
Plaza Companies provides development, financing, construction oversight, leasing renewals and expansions and property management at SkySong. The Coppola Cheney Group of Lee & Associates is SkySong’s leasing broker.
Companies located at SkySong have the opportunity to partner with ASU, which has about 194,000 students studying across four metropolitan Phoenix campuses Los Angeles and Washington D.C. and online. ASU is one of the largest public universities in the nation, with the majority of its students attending its campus in Tempe, Arizona, less than three miles from SkySong.
In addition to locating its own innovative research units at the center, through ASU’s on-site operations, tenant companies have a single point of contact for introductions to researchers, faculty and programs to address their specific needs.
