Faculty and staff can simplify student access to Design Innovation Hub tools, equipment, and materials by utilizing course fees or departmental funding. Through our Index Pre-Authorization System, approved students receive a declining balance within the DI Hub membership system that can be used for eligible purchases such as machine time, materials, and other Reactor services.
To participate, faculty should work with their department's business manager to submit a DI Hub Index Pre-Authorization identifying the funding source and approved spending limit. Once approved, designated students will have access to their allocated funds through their DI Hub account. As students make purchases throughout the semester, costs are automatically deducted from their available balance. At the end of the semester, Design Innovation staff will calculate actual usage and process an interdepartmental charge for the amount spent. Departments are only charged for expenses incurred, up to the approved authorization limit.
This process reduces administrative burden, streamlines purchasing, and ensures students have seamless access to the resources they need to complete coursework and projects.