New innovation hub to ‘revolutionise’ local govtech
07 June 2024
by Jonathan Andrews
A new US innovation hub has been launched by non-profit CivStart, to address the need for a centralised hub where public and private-sector leaders can come together to shape the future of government.
The CivStart Innovation Hub, in partnership with the US National League of Cities (NLC), will bring together city managers and local government leaders, start-up founders, and investors and aims to become a resource and collaborative space in govtech.
From networking events to educational curriculum, the platform will provide the tools and guidance needed to navigate the complexities of the government technology landscape.
“This is not just another engagement platform,” Brandon Natsuhara, Director of Strategic Partnerships, NLC, said during a webinar launch. “We want to evolve this platform into the Public Sector Innovation Hub. It fully aligns with everything that we’re trying to accomplish here at the National League of Cities.”
He added that all members of NLC will have free access to the innovation hub as part of their membership benefits.
Dr Peter Pirnejad, City Manager for Los Altos Hills, said: “This platform is going to fill an important need for local governments who need access to trusted, curated information and technologies in the rapidly-shifting world of government technology.”
For start-ups, the hub aims to provide access to a tailored govtech curriculum, curated information and resources, aligned investors, and a network of local government leaders looking to learn more. Start-up entrepreneurs will also be able to participate in live virtual and in-person events designed to accelerate their growth and impact.
And for investors, CivStart says the hub will offer a window into the latest innovative trends shaping local governments at the same time as it presents opportunities to invest in start-ups looking to solve city challenges.
“We are excited to partner with the National League of Cities to launch the CivStart Innovation Hub,” said Anthony Jamison, CEO at CivStart. “This platform will serve as a catalyst for innovation, bringing together a diverse array of stakeholders to drive positive change in communities across the country.”
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