What is inclusive innovation and why does it matter?
The innovation ecosystem can generate substantial economic and social benefits—but these benefits are often inequitably captured by certain communities and places. An innovation economy is inclusive when there are opportunities for all people to participate, and when there is a fair distribution of the benefits and harms resulting from innovation. Growing evidence suggests that inclusive economies generate more and better innovation, higher growth, and a more equitable distribution of the benefits of innovation.
Due to data collection and reporting lags among key organizations, the data and analysis on this site was developed prior to the pandemic. However, COVID-19 and the ensuing economic crises have accelerated the need to boost participation in the innovation economy and broaden the distribution of its benefits among groups and regions. This will improve innovation performance by including and drawing on a diversity of skills, knowledge, and perspectives. By tracking performance across innovation and inclusion opportunities, activities, and outcomes metrics, we will provide policymakers with a clearer foundation from which to develop targeted policies and programs that improve growth and distribution.
