Decades ago, researchers conducted their work from remote locations, far removed from urban business centers. As a result, many of their efforts occurred behind a figurative and geographic shield of secrecy. As demands for work-life balance increase, communication channels broaden and urban centers enjoy a new phase of growth and development, institutions are beginning to recognize a factor that the former model could not effectively deliver: collaboration through proximity.
The St. Pete Innovation District (SPID) was established in 2016. Today, membership exceeds 30 organizations within the Life Science, Marine Science, Education, Data Analytics, Art and Technology sectors. Many of these institutions are within a designated boundary of the District, while others are engaged from throughout the region and nation.
SPID utilizes a framework in which three types of assets create an innovative ecosystem — the Economic Assets (institutions), the Physical Assets (infrastructure) and the Networking Assets (connections between institutions).
The St. Pete Innovation District is located south of downtown St. Petersburg, Florida. The 0.83 square mile area is bordered by several unique neighborhoods. Many of the member organizations have a footprint in the District. Others collaborate on District activities from their locations across the region and nation.
