Chicago Innovation Blog

Blue Sky Innovation: 15 years of Chicago Innovation: Where the city stands today

by | Nov 1, 2016

One of the handiest words in the world of business is “innovation.” It is right up there with “new and improved” as a shorthand way of describing just about anything.

What a disservice to a word that has formed the underpinning of a massive shift in the entire business landscape. And no place is that shift more apparent — or significant — than to the economy of the Chicago region.

To explain what I mean, it is important first to scrape away the buzzword quality of the word “innovation” and get to the heart of a clear and simple definition: Find a need in the marketplace, and create a product or service to fulfill the need and capture its value. This can be economic value or social value.

Chicago Innovation Awards winners revealed

Chicago Innovation Awards winners revealed

A self-sanitizing diaper changing table, a digital health platform, and an apparel brand that eases dressing for older adults get special honors in this year’s awards.

Chicago Innovation Awards: A Preview

Chicago Innovation Awards: A Preview

This year’s Chicago Innovation Awards are set to take place on Nov. 16. Luke Tanen — president and CEO of Chicago Innovation — joins the Noon Business Hour with a preview.

Chicago Innovation Awards: A Preview

Innovation Award spawns study on Chicago trends

A study of data from Chicago Innovation Award nominees has led to a report on trends in the city. Luke Tanen, president and CEO of Chicago Innovation, joins the Noon Business Hour.