NSF-funded project aims to bring arts and culture into KC’s Critical Materials & Biologics ecosystems
Robust innovation ecosystems rely on the interaction of different sectors, each with their intrinsic motivations. Scientists produce research, experiments, and papers, while entrepreneurs produce products, services, and businesses. Both apply innovation and creativity, and there is a track record of how these two types of innovation pipelines interact with one another, with the outputs of research serving as the foundation for new enterprise. As federal place-based innovation funding has expanded over the past several years, programs like EDA’s Tech Hubs and NSF’s Regional Innovation Engines have emphasized the mutually beneficial relationship between fundamental scientific research and the growth of new businesses and local economies.
Artists and creative professionals have yet another type of creative process and output that may touch research and commerce, but often has meaning, expression, understanding, or persuasion as its own end. And the value proposition for creatives and artists to engage in the development of new innovation-led economic projects and sectors is not always clear. As the biologics and critical materials innovation clusters each have a footprint in the Kansas City region supported by the Tech Hubs and Engines programs, we aimed to explore how artists, cultural institutions, and creative professionals might bring their expertise to bear on the development of these clusters and the projects, research, and startups that emerge from them.
In August 2024, KC Digital Drive hosted a groundbreaking workshop focused on integrating arts and culture into critical materials and biologics innovation ecosystems. This unique event brought together a diverse mix of academics, industry leaders, civic innovators, entrepreneurs, and creative professionals to explore how collaboration across disciplines can drive economic development and technological breakthroughs.
Workshop Highlights
The two-day workshop, preceded by a virtual pre-session, featured dynamic activities blending the creative processes of artists with the specialized R&D pathways of critical industries. Participants tackled real-world challenges through interdisciplinary collaboration, drafting 15 specific interventions aimed at fostering greater integration of arts and science. These proposals, complete with estimated costs, offer actionable models for advancing innovation ecosystems across the region.
Key Findings
Participants uncovered surprising synergies between artists and science-based practitioners. Beyond exploring mechanisms of engagement, many scientists and technologists discovered new perspectives that could enhance their methodologies and outcomes. This realization underscored the untapped potential of integrating creative thinking into scientific research and innovation.
Impact on the ICC Project
This workshop leveraged federal programs like the EDA Tech Hub and NSF’s Regional Innovation Engines to position Kansas City as a leader in emergent clusters focused on critical materials, green energy supply chains, biologics, and biopharmaceuticals. By aligning with the ICC’s vision, it underscored the importance of regional culture in strengthening innovation ecosystems.
Looking Ahead
The success of this workshop points to the need for sustained interdisciplinary engagement. Proposed follow-up activities include pilot projects, regular convenings, and new spaces for artist-scientist collaboration. Kansas City’s vibrant creative community and robust tech industries position it as a model for other regions seeking to build more inclusive and innovative ecosystems.