Today, we announce a new partnership with Idealab Arizona to drive innovation in the built environment. Focused on incubating startups that address critical challenges and opportunities in the built environment, the partnership is the first area of focus for Idealab Arizona’s startup studio announced last fall with Arizona State University (ASU), ranked No. 1 in Innovation by U.S. News & World Report for 10 consecutive years.

“We see the opportunity to expand beyond the boundaries of a traditional architecture practice and reach across sectors to invent new solutions to the most pressing challenges in the built environment,” said Partner Adam Semel. “In the spirit of collaborative problem-solving, this partnership with Idealab Arizona and ASU is a commitment to continue to develop new advanced technologies and sustainable practices.”

Idealab Arizona is a partnership of Idealab Studio, the world’s longest-running technology incubator, and the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC). The partnership launched today at Idea Day 2025, Idealab Arizona’s annual event connecting entrepreneurs and investors.

“Idealab Arizona’s partnership with SOM marks an exciting milestone,” said John Graham, Founding Investor of Idealab Arizona and Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sunbelt Holdings. “Leveraging SOM’s unmatched focus on engineering and design innovation with Idealab Arizona’s robust entrepreneurial ecosystem and ASU’s research prowess will enable startups that address the biggest challenges facing the built environment worldwide—from off-grid data centers to accessory dwelling units. Together, we will drive innovation that shapes more sustainable and resilient cities.”