Portable Innovation Labs
Expanding STEM Access Across Ohio
Our Portable Innovation Labs (PILs) bring high-quality, hands-on STEM learning to classrooms across Ohio at no cost. Powered by PAST and in partnership with Battelle, these labs are designed to support teachers and students with tools and experiences that schools may not be able to access on their own.
Why Educators Love Our Labs
Nurturing STEM Identity
Portable Innovation Labs empower students and educators to see themselves as innovators, problem-solvers, and future STEM leaders through hands-on, real-world learning.
No Cost Learning
PAST Foundation provides PILs at no cost to ensure every educator and student has access to high-quality STEM experiences regardless of available resources.
Diverse Lab Experiences
Each PIL offers unique, ready-to-use lab experiences designed to spark curiosity and connect learning to real-world careers. Labs spanning PreK-12th grade content, there is a lab for everyone in every subject!
Where to Borrow a Lab
Portable Innovation Labs are available for free at several hub locations across Ohio, thanks to our partnership with Battelle and local collaborators. Each hub may offer a slightly different selection of labs, so check your nearest location for availability. Our ultimate goal is to make STEM education more accessible and engaging, and we believe that our Portable Innovation Labs are a significant step towards achieving this vision.
How It Works
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Labs are free to borrow for 2–3 weeks
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Options may include equipment, materials, and curriculum
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Pickup and return is required at the hub
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Inventory varies by location
PAST Foundation
Serving Central Ohio
Headquartered in Columbus, the PAST Foundation serves as the central distribution site for Portable Innovation Labs. Educators can borrow labs directly from the PAST Innovation Lab to support STEM exploration, problem-based learning, and real-world skill development.
Columbus Metropolitan Library
Serving Columbus Metropolitan Library branch staff
Library staff can borrow Portable Innovation Labs to enhance programming and provide students with meaningful STEM learning experiences. Labs support the PAST Design Cycle and align with inquiry-based learning practices.
Note: Only Columbus Metropolitan Library employees may borrow these labs for use within their branch programs.
Eastern Ohio ESC
Serving a 13-county region in Northeast Ohio
The Eastern Ohio ESC Hub makes Portable Innovation Labs available to support teachers and students in developing strong STEM identities. Labs are tailored for hands-on learning and can be integrated into a wide range of educational programs.