Innovation is one of the most talked-about ideas in leadership today, yet it's often misunderstood in local government. Too often, it's only associated with new technology or big-budget initiatives rather than what it really is: a better way to solve problems, improve public services, and create opportunities for residents.

That connection is exactly why innovation matters to economic mobility. When local governments rethink how they deliver services and design more inclusive systems, they create stronger pathways to jobs, entrepreneurship, accessibility, and long-term community prosperity.

As Leigh-Ann Buchanan, president and CEO of the Miami-Dade Innovation Authority, explains, innovation isn't simply about doing something new. It's about delivering better outcomes for the people government serves. During a recent interview, Buchanan shared why innovation is one of the most powerful tools local government leaders have to expand economic mobility and opportunity and rebuild public trust.

Innovation Is Action

Innovation can feel like a buzzword, especially in local government. Buchanan believes it's much simpler than many people think. “Innovation is actually simply the process of creating something new,” she said. “It is not the idea, but putting it into practice.”

For local government leaders, innovation isn't about chasing the latest technology. It's about finding better ways to improve services and create value for residents.

Inclusive Innovation Creates Opportunity

Buchanan says innovation has the greatest impact when it expands opportunity for everyone.

“One of the most important distinctions when it comes to creating economic mobility, creating opportunities using innovative means, is to make sure you understand the distinction between inclusive and exclusive innovation,” Buchanan said.

Whether improving digital accessibility, redesigning services, or investing in workforce development, inclusive innovation helps ensure more people can benefit from those changes.

Building an Innovation Mindset

Innovation shouldn't belong to one office or department. “Innovation flows really well when it's embedded into the culture,” Buchanan said.

She encourages leaders to see themselves as innovators and empower their teams to challenge old assumptions.

Innovation Requires Courage

Innovation also means rethinking risk, especially as communities and resident demands evolve.

“What is the cost of doing nothing? That, to me, is a much bigger risk than trying,” Buchanan said.

Join the Conversation at the National Economic Mobility & Opportunity (EMO) Conference | August 19–21 in Washington, D.C.

“Innovation is for everyone, and everyone is an innovator,” Buchanan said.

Join us in Washington, D.C., as Buchanan expands on these ideas during her opening keynote, “Discovering Your Inner Innovator in Pursuit of Public Excellence,” at ICMA's National EMO conference.

Learn more and register: emoconference.org.