Innovation Through Partnerships
Four Capabilities for Local Governments
This research portfolio, led by former Bloomberg Public Innovation Fellow Tommi Laitio (2022-24), explores how partnerships, when guided by four core capabilities, can help city governments collaborate more effectively and deliver creative, innovative outcomes for residents.
Through an examination of cities across the Americas and Europe, this research brief and companion case studies introduce four essential capabilities: navigation, convening, experimentation, and codification. Together, they form a practical model for building strong partnerships in local government that strengthen collaboration, improve services, and foster democratic legitimacy through innovation.
Related Resources
CASE STUDY
Codifying Rebuild: Equity for Philadelphia's Civic Commons
Codification is helping the City of Philadelphia's “Rebuild” Initiative turn collaborative intent into lasting change for the city's civic commons.
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CASE STUDY
An Everybody Institution: Experimentation in the LA Public Library
Learn how LAPL leaders, library branches, and service areas pilot new programs and create lasting impact through a culture and structure of experimentation.
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CASE STUDY
Convening for Collaborative Innovation in Mecklenburg County
In Mecklenburg County, NC, intermediaries and thoughtfully designed protocols led to investments in civic infrastructure.
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RESEARCH BRIEF
Innovation Through Partnerships: Four Capabilities
Explore how friction in cities can be a force for collaboration and creativity through four essential capabilities: navigation, convening, experimentation, and codification.
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ARTICLE
Why Cities Should Embrace Friction Through Partnerships
Friction—the dynamic that arises from competing priorities, differing expectations, or variations in resources—is everywhere. Local governments are no exception.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Meet Former Bloomberg Public Innovation Fellow, Tommi Laitio
Tommi Laitio brings over a decade of public service and city hall expertise and research focused on driving better results for residents.
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ARTICLE
Tension Can Add Invaluable Dimension to Innovation
Friction can actually be a vital ingredient that spices up the innovation process and, in doing so, unlocks new levels of resources and solutions.
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