Oftentimes, despite our best intentions, what we set out to achieve, whether it be a large initiative spanning multiple states or a small project we have set for ourselves, does not end up being what we actually accomplish. Sometimes efforts fail due to unforeseen or insurmountable circumstances, but sometimes, it is a result of a failure to consider the context or to critically evaluate some of our assumptions.

Orange Sparkle Ball Partner, Ashley Touchton, attended the Consumer Electronics Showcase (CES) in Las Vegas at the beginning of the year to research emerging technology sectors and understand evolving trends in the startup and technology sectors. This event is the largest technology trade show in the world and boasts over 140K visitors and over 4,500 exhibitors.

Innovation is often portrayed as a dramatic leap forward—a groundbreaking idea, a disruptive technology, or a revolutionary business model. While these big wins capture headlines, they rarely reflect the day-to-day reality of innovation. Most meaningful progress stems from small, consistent steps that accumulate over time to create lasting impact.

Innovation ecosystems thrive on collaboration, creativity, and adaptability. When organizations and communities seek to create impactful solutions, design thinking and human-centered methods have emerged as pivotal frameworks for driving innovation. These approaches are transformative methodologies that reshape how problems are understood and solved, aligning solutions with real human needs.

Through analysis of social care networks, presented at the 2024 Sunbelt Conference by several members of our OSB team and Teri Garstka, Director of the KU Social Innovation Lab, we've gained a deeper understanding of how network structures underpin the strength and resilience of systems.

Inclusive Innovation initiatives are a powerful catalyst for collaboration, connecting entrepreneurial communities, businesses, local governments, and academic institutions. These initiatives focus on equitable resource distribution, leadership, and ecosystem building, unlocking solutions that address the unique challenges of communities.