This program is the first–of–its kind in the country, and it aims to offer local government leaders from communities of every size the opportunity to develop new skills, collaborate with peers, and learn data-driven approaches for creating efficient, future-ready public-sector solutions. Participants engage in six virtual classes on building creative designs, identifying community needs, measuring outcomes, piloting new solutions, improving customer experience, and communicating results. 

The Academy is an initiative of TJCOG's Strategy and Innovation Network, a collaborative group of government employees working on and interested in developing their knowledge of strategy and innovation skills. A task force comprised of network individuals representing the Towns of Hillsborough and Cary, the City of Raleigh, and Wake County has guided the development of the Academy application process and syllabus.

About the Academy Structure

Albert Einstein is credited with saying, “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, but expecting different results.” While the "government way" is not insane, Einstein's quote does reflect a common trap that many governments fall into.

The Innovation Academy defines innovation as the execution and delivery of new ideas that create value for a organization and community. Understanding the value of creativity and the innovation process is key to success. The course structure and order mimic this innovation process, moving from the first course on creative thinking to the final course on communicating results. Instructors are thought leaders from across our region and state, who will guide you through the work and offer space for you to build your own innovation tool-kit.