We took an evolving approach to inclusive innovation drawing on:
- research
- strategy
- practical application
Research
Early on we:
- mapped the existing innovation ecosystem
- engaged key stakeholders to define priorities and address systemic barriers
- Reviewed a wide range of sources of information
Engagement
We ran workshops that:
- introduced inclusive innovation principles
- fostered collaboration
- tailored approaches to regional needs
Collaborating with people in the West Midlands made sure we were responsive to real challenges and opportunities.
Launching the guide
Our latest sessions:
- highlighted key learnings
- refined plans and tools – like this Inclusive Innovation Guide that you are reading now!
We tested the content with 10 potential users, then made improvements based on what they told us.
This website was then launched on 31st March 2025.
What next for the Guide
This website is the initial launch of a work in progress.
We hope to develop it further, to become more visually engaging, and include a wider range of relevant content and locally sourced case studies.
Writing the guide
This guide was written by subject-matter experts at Connected Places Catapult, with help from a content designer and an accessibility specialist. And our progress and results are reviewed by an impact assessment specialist.
By embedding inclusive practices and monitoring impact, the programme is laying the foundation for sustainable, inclusive, place-based innovation.
Artificial intelligence
Our subject matter experts used generative artificial intelligence like ChatGPT and DeepSeek to help draft a small amount of technical content in plain English. This was always edited by our team afterwards. Nothing in this guide is the raw output of an AI.