Birmingham Science City (BSC) is not unique in thinking in terms of its local innovation ecosystem (much has been written about the concept for several years – try Googling the term for some examples) but our local ecosystem is unique. Like biological ecosystems, different innovation ecosystems share some common features and needs, but each will have a different set of conditions and mix of components and will therefore have particular combinations of requirements and interactions to enable it to thrive. Supporting organisations need to be in tune with these local needs. Furthermore, to thrive innovation ecosystems must be able to constantly adapt to challenges and opportunities presented by an ever changing environment, for example policy, fiscal or funding changes. For this reason I take issue with some commentators talking about ‘building innovation ecosystems’. The process is much more organic and interactive than this implies. So BSC takes the approach that the innovation ecosystem needs to be nurtured or enabled according to its unique requirements rather than built or managed. BSC is, of course, only one local organisation supporting the innovation ecosystem, and the Technology Strategy Board as the national innovation lead is beginning to explore how it can support innovation ecosystems at a local level too. BSC has the advantage of being a partnership across the public, private and research sectors, and is thus able to take a uniquely holistic and independent view.
To read the full, original article click on this link: Keeping our local Innovation Ecosystem Thriving « Birmingham Science City
