RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK – The new prototyping lab known as Hangar6 will open Feb. 20 after delays forced its launch to be moved back from a planned September 2017 debut.

The First Flight Venture Center, which is an incubator for new and emerging entrepreneurial companies, landed a $450,000 federal grant for Hangar6. Construction delays forced the opening into 2018.

Hangar6 will be open to all North Carolina science-based businesses. Three key project partners are behind FFVC’S Hangar6 Program: Alexandria Real Estate Equities (ARE), the NC Center of Innovation Network (COIN) and Eva Garland Consulting (EGC).

“We’re looking forward to providing a comprehensive range of advanced equipment and expert professional services that will serve as a resource for the rapidly-growing number of science- and technology-based entrepreneurial companies that are springing up in the RTP and the greater Triangle regions,” said Andrew Schwab, FFVC’s president.

“We believe that the Hangar6 facility will be a catalyst for the growth of new companies and new employment opportunities for North Carolina.”

Fees will be charged for use of the equipment.

Available for use will be 3D scanners, CO2 lasers, metal fiber lasers, a CNC mill, 3D printers and more.

The facility will be directed by Sam Dirani.

Hangar6 is located adjacent to the FFVC in RTP.

Registration for the grand opening is now open.