Place-Based Innovation: Solutions Built for Local Contexts

Every place has its own character, shaped by geography, history, economy, and culture. These unique factors influence how challenges are experienced and how solutions succeed. Place-based innovation is about recognising and working with this context, rather than applying generic, one-size-fits-all approaches.

At Co-Lab, we believe that the best solutions are those developed with, not just for, the communities they serve. This means engaging local stakeholders early, listening to their priorities, and using their insights to shape design and delivery. It also means aligning projects with the regional economic, environmental, and social landscape to make benefits relevant and lasting.

Key elements of place-based innovation include:

• Local engagement: involving residents, businesses, and community organisations in shaping priorities.

• Context-aware design: adapting solutions to local infrastructure, culture, and capabilities.

• Collaborative delivery: building partnerships between local actors and external expertise.

  
  

• Long-term stewardship: ensuring that the community can maintain and adapt solutions.

This approach ensures that projects are technically sound and socially and economically viable. It fosters ownership, builds trust, and increases the chances of sustained impact. In short, place-based innovation turns good ideas into solutions that work where they are needed most.