Application Period Opens for Innovation Partnership Program
Kansas City, MO – Mayor Sly James today announced the kickoff of the 2017 Innovation Partnership Program. The City will accept program applications for one month, beginning Monday, April 24 and ending Wednesday, May 24.
The program, in its third year, provides a front door for entrepreneurs to develop, test and demonstrate innovative solutions in order to improve the quality and efficiency of City services and operations. Through the partnership, the City agrees to test and evaluate developed solutions using City infrastructure or data.
“This program has become a cornerstone of our city’s innovation. We want to constantly improve our city services – and sometimes that means bringing an entrepreneur’s skill set to the table,” said Mayor James. “At the same time, we want to be a city that fosters talent and bold ideas – so we’re willing to serve as an R&D partner with these innovators. There is so much we can gain from relationships like this, as a city and as a hub of innovation. I’m excited to see what this year brings.”
The City is looking for innovative partners that support economic development and operations strategies such as improving quality and efficiency of City services, creating new markets and jobs; attracting and retaining top talent; and improving economic vitality, social equity and environmental quality.
As a significant client and testbed, the City gives entrepreneurs a valuable use case for their product or service, serving as a means for them to further attract clients, or investment once the program is complete. The City benefits from the opportunity to engage new technology, products, or services at no cost. After the test period, the City may decide to purchase a company’s products or services if it is a good fit and aids in achieving City goals.
One of last year’s participants, Redivus Health, is an app that aids response, treatment and care for health emergencies by better coordinating efforts across first responders, nurses, and doctors. The IPP partnership allowed Redivus Health to showcase a 40% improvement in cardiac arrest compliance while testing in a simulated experience. The mobile app assisted KCFD in saving the life of a heart attack victim who went into cardiac arrest in the field.
To apply for the Innovation Partnership Program, persons must complete the online application form. Applicants will be evaluated based on a variety of criteria and a select number will be invited to partner with the City for a 12-week period. For more information about the program and to submit an online application, visit: www.ippkc.org.
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