Innovation Partnership Program Pairs KC Entrepreneurs with Local Gov't

“The Innovation Partnership Program is a unique way to explore technology that makes our processes and services better and more efficient,” said Kansas City Mayor Sly James in a press release. “Our reputation as an innovative city is growing, and this partnership between entrepreneurs and City Hall is another way to encourage that innovation.”

Kansas City is looking for innovative partners that support economic development and operations strategies such as improving quality and efficiency of city services and operations, creating new markets and jobs; attracting and retaining top talent; and improving economic vitality, social equity and environmental quality.

What is the Innovation Partnership Program (IPP)?

The city’s Innovation Partnership Program is a front door for entrepreneurs to apply to develop, test and demonstrate innovative solutions with KCMO data and infrastructure in support of Advance KC and City Operations.

What criteria will be used to determine which companies will be accepted to participate in the Innovation Partnership Program?

The criteria that will be used to choose participants for the Innovation Partnership Program may include the following criteria, but is not limited to: improving the quality and efficiency of city services and operations; creating new markets and jobs; attracting and retaining top talent; and improving economic vitality, social equity and environmental quality.

How will the Innovation Partnership Program be structured?

The IPP will partner selected participants with the city for a 12 week test case. Participants will be required to meet with our Office of Innovation every two weeks to discuss the progress of the partnership. After the 12 week testing period, participants will have a presentation in front of Mayor Sly James, City Manager Troy Schulte and the IPP committee.

Who is on the committee?

The Innovation Partnership Program committee will consist of 5 city personnel: Bob Bennett, Kate Garman, Cedric Rowan, Rick Usher and Nick Hawkins.

Will the city invest financially in my company during the IPP?

Companies that are selected to participate in the Innovation Partnership Program will not receive any financial investment from the city. However, during the trial period, the city will allow these companies to have access to city data and infrastructure to provide a test bed for their product or service.

Will the city ever invest in my company?

After the 12 week test period and the presentation is completed, a review of all of the information will be conducted and the city will decide if they want to procure the company's services, technology, software, etc.

Has the city purchased any companies products or services that previously participated in the IPP?

Yes, RF365, a company founded in 2012, participated in the Innovation Partnership Program. Following the test case, the city decided to purchase the company’s software, which helps simplify and streamline the city’s RFP process.

Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. on August 15, 2016.

If you are interested in applying and need further guidance, give us a call at 816-235-6500.