Advancing a new wave of urban competitiveness: The role of mayors in the rise of innovation districts

Over the past year, the United States Conference of Mayors and the Brookings Institution, along with the Project for Public Spaces have worked together to capture a new model of growth that is emerging in cities and the particular roles that mayors can play.

This handbook offers concrete strategies for mayors and their administrations to facilitate the rise of innovation districts—small geographic areas within cities where research universities, medical institutions, and companies cluster and connect with start-ups, accelerators, and incubators. They reflect profound market and demographic dynamics that are revaluing proximity, density, walkability, and accessibility—in other words, the natural strengths of cities.

Table of contests

Section 1: Introduction
Section 2: An overview on innovation districts
Section 3: 12 principles guiding innovation districts
Section 4: An audit of city assets—Identifying the potential for an innovation district
Section 5: Mayors as conveners—Engaging local leaders to consider a district strategy
Section 6: Mayors as champions—Playing a visible role to advance an innovation district
Section 7: Mayors as catalysts—Using city powers to strengthen an innovation district
Section 8: Conclusion