Leadership 3 — Have leaders established a more formalized governance structure—when necessary—to guide district development?
What to look for: Are any existing organizations in the area well-positioned to be a formal governance entity for the district? Could any existing organizations be restructured to become a formal governance entity for the district? What values, capacities, powers, and responsibilities would a new organization need to successfully govern the district?
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How to measure it:
Sample sources:
• A geographic focus that • Organizational websites and generally aligns with that of reports the innovation district • Interviews with organizational • A mission that aligns with that leadership and board of the innovation district members • A willingness by the organization’s leadership and board to undertake new/additional roles, responsibilities, and activities • Sound financial and organizational capacity • A diverse board that comprises a mix of nonprofits, universities, firms, developers, political leaders, residents and other key district stakeholders • The ability to take on a wide range of tasks to improve the innovation ecosystem, advance economic inclusion, and enhance the district’s physical realm.