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Learn / Who advances districts? / Investors / Philanthropies

National, local, and communal philanthropy

Local and community foundations, along with national philanthropy, invest in innovation districts. They finance districts in an effort to advance economic regional prosperity and support innovative work in addressing economic, social and racial disparities.

Philanthropy

The role of philanthropy

A key role of philanthropy is to provide ongoing organizational support for innovation district managers. A 2020 financial analysis of nine innovation districts showed how they rely on philanthropic funding at different stages of their development. Their contributions include:

  • Philanthropic gifts as the impetus for launching a district. 
  • Philanthropy purchasing land to support districts beyond their early stage—often financing programs or services to support vulnerable actors (e.g., young startups, minority entrepreneurs) or activities.
  • Philanthropy at a much later stage, filling important gaps, such as schools, workforce development, and mentoring programs, that were limiting a district’s ability to reach its full potential.
  • Philanthropy plays a vital role in advancing programs and social networks.

Who Advances Districts?

Other actors advancing innovation districts

Actors advancing R&D

Universities & medical institutions, R&D magnets, Companies

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Ecosystem builders

Accelerators and incubators, Other types of intermediaries, New kinds of anchors

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Investors

Governments, Philanthropists, Real Estate Developers, Other investors

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Mission-driven organizations

Mission-driven organizations

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