
The Global Institute in 2021: Harnessing Innovation Districts to “Build Back Better”
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Learn / Who advances districts? / Investors / Governments
Around the world, governments play an important role in advancing innovation districts, drawing important connections between people, places, and ideas
National or Federal governments have been known to introduce the concept of innovation districts to political and economic leaders. Some have played both a champion and convening role, by financing research and planning efforts to help leverage cities with strong universities and medical institutions. In a few cases, national governments passed resolutions to partially finance new projects and programs.
State governments have also introduced and championed the economic model for their respective states. In some cases, they developed competitions to spur cities and their institutions to devise a district that builds on their assets. In other cases, they have directly financed catalytic infrastructure, financing for early stage companies, and critical planning activities. Lastly, they have devised supportive policies to advance innovative sectors and place-based development.
City governments or municipalities have been known to support new and existing district efforts. Their support includes important changes in zoning, financing new infrastructure, enabling smart tax incentives, and, in some rare cases, city governments have given unique powers to district organizations to develop master plans and issue tax abatements.
From conveners to champions to catalysts, the role that governments play is diverse and significant.
Who Advances Districts?
Other actors advancing innovation districts
Ecosystem builders
Accelerators and incubators, Other types of intermediaries, New kinds of anchors
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