An idea that hatched months ago is catching on in Maryville.

Governor Jay Nixon dedicated the new Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship on Northwest Missouri State University's campus Wednesday.

The business incubator is more than 46,000 square feet. It provides space and support for start-up companies. Three tenants have already moved into the building. Five others are expected to sign agreements in the coming months.

Students say the facility is a big win for those attending Northwest.

"They get this brand new state-of-the art building where they can do research, have class and also work side-by-side with the tenants in the building and get that hands-on experience that will prepare them for life after Northwest," said Erin Holm, Student Senate President.

The incubator also houses academic and research facilities and it brought a nano-technology degree to the campus.