I recently had the opportunity to attend the inaugural summit of Innovation Districts. Hosted by the Global Institute on Innovation Districts (GIID), it was a chance to exchange ideas with 49 other districts from around the world. One of the most asked questions at the event was “how do we compare?”
I found there are differences in how districts have been established and are operated – including size, geographic location, governance. We have several advantages in these: our large district size, our waterfront location adjacent to a vibrant downtown is unique, and our eight-year public-private partnership provides a strong foundation.
At the same time, there are several high-level similarities that are validated by GIID’s research, including:
It was gratifying to see that the things we are working on align to this list. For example, we are focusing on emerging technologies, especially those that can be used across our target industries and provide unique capabilities when converged. We are also working with regional partners to not only facilitate innovation in our area but to help amplify and expand innovation across Tampa Bay.
This event confirmed for me that the St. Pete Innovation District is on the right track and at the same time has the potential to be transformational in the future.
Alison Barlow
Executive Director
Not so long ago, talent and innovation blossomed in an area just south of Downtown St. Petersburg. City officials and community partners wanted to leverage the capabilities of key institutions—USF St. Petersburg, Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, and the Poynter Institute, to name a few. The point was to foster collaboration and show our initiatives to the world.
We will host another Trolley Tour and Happy Hour on Friday, June 13th. You will board a trolley with other Innovation District partners and learn about the history and future plans for the area. This tour will feature stops at Albert Whitted Airport, Florida Institute of Oceanography, and The Dalí Museum. The tour will conclude back at the Hub with a networking happy hour.