In recent years, prominent corporations have geared towards acting more like Startup organizations, because it’s the environment most conducive to innovation.

SBA research shows that smaller businesses produce 16-times more patents per employee than large corporations.

Then, it should come as no surprise that local governments with a thirst for innovation are following suit and adhering to the business models that Startup companies use so prolifically.

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Denver's Unheralded Agility and Smart City Models

City’s prioritizing the ability to roll with the proverbial punches and pivot when needed put themselves at a distinct advantage.

The very nature of an agile business model breeds innovation because adjusting to every obstacle on the fly necessitates creative solutions from every employee, top-to-bottom.

Denver, Colorado is partnering with Panasonic to build a 400-acre, $500 million ‘smart,’ 100%connected community, called Peña Station Next. Sensors and cameras strewn throughout the city/lab-hybrid deliver data to optimize urban living for citizens. Plus, robotic shuttles with on-demand technology will reduce traffic, and wirelessly controlled streetlights will save energy.

Also, environmental monitors will discern the optimal times to plow snow and the best places to install solar panels.

At the crux of being ‘agile’ means gearing up for change. So, at the forefront of Denver’s model is staying ahead in a world where the ‘future won't look anything like our world does today,’claims Kelly Brough, President and CEO of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce states.

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