Open Innovation Platform

Open and sustainable innovation and social entrepreneurship with global connectivity. How do we design a globally connected makerspace that is open, accessible, and welcoming? How do we apply global manufacturing innovations and hardware prototyping efficiencies towards sustainable systems?

Our open and sustainable innovation program aims to champion innovation and connect globally in a way that is locally rooted but internationally impactful. We work to cultivate next-generation entrepreneurs and innovators who are responsive to their communities while still tackling global challenges. The UN SDGs serve as a lens through which we view these “glocal” challenges. Our focus is on sustainable innovation and social entrepreneurship, leveraging the strengths of Georgia Tech’s innovation ecosystems with the strengths and diversity of our global partners. We view this network as a form of innovation diplomacy – peer work based on respect, creativity, and mutual knowledge sharing. In practice this program builds on existing Georgia Tech strengths such as the Convergence Innovation Competition, CREATE-X, Sustainable-X, and my Global Entrepreneurship class. Currently, the program is working with a collection of Asian partners, including a consortium of universities, government champions, and private-sector supporters. Our university partners are experts in their local innovation contexts and sources of student talent. Private sector partners bring their own innovation challenges, seeking a safe space for blue-sky creativity and global intercultural connectivity. They also want to hire the best students from the program. Public sector partners are critical to how we understand and participate in the national innovation systems. Outcomes of this project include new theoretical and practical frameworks for open and sustainable innovation, global networks that enhance our student experiences and innovation activities, and significant outreach and development opportunities.