The Impact of THE GARDENS

Boosts Entrepreneurship

• Accelerates local startups through resources, networking, and access to funding
• Lowers barriers to innovation by providing affordable workspaces
• Connects entrepreneurs to mentors and talent to scale companies

Drives Sustainability

• Reduces emissions through green retrofits and net zero operations
• Showcases sustainability solutions developed by members
• Partners on municipal smart city, resiliency, and green economy initiatives

Develops Talent

• Retains emerging talent by providing inspiring community environment
• Upskills workers on sustainability and innovation through workshops
• Trains student entrepreneurs and connects graduates to opportunities

Sparks Innovation

• Fosters unlikely collaborations across sectors and industries
• Provides infrastructure for rapid prototyping and iteration
• Hosts hackathons, idea jams, and challenges to solve civic problems

Revitalizes Neighborhoods

• Transforms outdated and underutilized properties into vibrant destinations
• Generates foot traffic that supports local businesses
• Improves safety and livability through activated spaces

Enhances Well-Being

• Promotes inclusion, diversity, and belonging through community
• Boosts mental health through biophilic environment and connections
• Improves physical health through wellness amenities and green space

Attracts Investment

• Establishes the city as a hub for sustainability technology and innovation
• Draws impact investors and green funds to fuel local ventures
• Helps attract values-aligned companies and talent

Promotes Tourism

• Provides inspiring venue for conferences, events and trade shows
• Showcases city as a sustainability leader to visitor ecosystem
• Offers engaging experiences for green-minded travelers

Supports Public Sector

• Hosts hackathons to crowdsource solutions for government challenges
• Pilots emerging tech like sensors to improve municipal services
• Cultivates partnerships on smart city strategies and infrastructure

Drives Global Profile

• Positions the city as an international sustainability innovation hub
• Connects local change-makers to global networks
• Attracts high-profile events and media interest

The Beneficial Impact of Innovation Hubs in a City