The Globalist with Julie Wagner
The Globalist with Julie Wagner
Julie Wagner recently joined Tom Webb on Monocle’s The Globalist podcast to discuss the transformative potential of innovation districts. The episode, released on May 15, explored how these districts can revolutionize urban environments by fostering creativity, research, and economic growth.
In the conversation, Wagner described innovation districts as urban areas designed to be accessible and dense, contrasting with traditional, car-dependent science parks typically located in suburban areas. Anchored by research universities and medical institutions, these districts focus on collaborative innovation, transforming physical spaces into vibrant hubs of discovery and delivery.
Wagner highlighted that the evolution of innovation districts predates the pandemic, driven by trends like open innovation and the rise of nimble, small companies. Despite challenges posed by COVID-19, these districts remained resilient, leveraging their unique infrastructure and strategic programs to maintain their dynamism.
The Global Institute on Innovation Districts, Wagner explained, supports the development of these areas through empirical research, a global network, and strategic assistance. The Global Institute’s mission is to ensure innovation districts become multipliers of growth, offering diverse opportunities and addressing complex urban challenges.
For more insights, listen to the full episode of The Globalist podcast featuring Julie Wagner on Monocle’s platform (interview starts at the 38 minute mark.)
Interviewed by Tom Webb
Episode released on 15 May 2024