Federal Incentives for Innovation: The Urban Consortium for Technology Initiatives

摘要

A project to accelerate and improve the application of scientific and technological (S&T) resources to the solution of problems in the public sector is described. To achieve this objective, the Urban Consortium for Technology Initiatives (UC), consisting of 28 of the nation's largest cities and six large urban counties, was formed. This report outlines the functions and achievements of UC. Key findings, issues, and unanswered questions are summarized. The project is analyzed within the framework of a generalized innovation model from project objectives, target population, and barriers addressed through strategies, methods of implementation, and evaluation approaches. This undertaking was considered to be successful in welding senior staff of the largest urban governments into an effective network for the exchange of ideas and operating experience. Networking also stimulated and formalized a cooperative approach on the part of big city mayors and city managers. Included is the project director's response to the project assessment.