Press

Why place matters more than ever

As cities navigate economic uncertainty and rapid technological change, GIID’s research underscores why innovation districts are central to resilience, sustainability, and inclusive growth. Drawing on global experience, GIID highlights three imperatives shaping the next decade of innovation-led growth: to decarbonize, to de-risk, and to deliver talent.

Unlocking the potential of innovation districts in Japan

GIID President Julie Wagner and Senior Research Associate Laura Biancuzzo joined Smart City Institute–Japan’s special forum to discuss how innovation districts can drive resilience, sustainability, and regional revitalization. Drawing on international and local examples, they highlighted Japan’s growing opportunity to harness place-based innovation—linking universities, industry, and government to accelerate collaboration and inclusive growth.

Global innovation district leaders will gather in Monterrey, Mexico, April 9–11, 2025, for the first international summit to advance collaboration and share strategies on clean tech, health, and disruptive technologies. Hosted by GIID and Tec de Monterrey, the event will showcase how districts drive entrepreneurship, talent, and global partnerships.

Julie Wagner gives a keynote speech at the Committee for Sydney.