We fast-track innovation to improve quality of life in cities.

Most cities don’t have an innovation problem.

They have an integration problem.

MDIA transforms how municipalities pilot, procure, and adopt emerging technology and innovative solutions to help local governments improve quality of life for residents by delivery services more effectively and efficiently.

We are an independent nonprofit. We exist to bridge the gap between private innovators and the public sector to help local governments solve pressing community problems through structured collaboration and open innovation challenges.

“This work will advance innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth.”

— Ken Griffin, Citadel founder and CEO

What makes MDIA different?

MOST PROGRAMS

Handle one or two steps of the innovation process

Covers the whole journey in one structure:

Diagnosing local problems

Running open challenges to attract innovative solutions

Co-designing and leading pilots

Funding companies directly

Clearing the pathway to procurement

Our end-to-end process de-risks innovation procurement for governments and companies alike. Learn more in our FAQ →

Our Story

2023

MDIA launches in Miami-Dade County with a $9M equal match of private, public and philanthropic funding commitment from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, Ken Griffin (Griffin Catalyst), and Miami-Dade County.

2023 - 2025

MDIA spearheads 8 Public Innovation Challenges in partnership with Miami-Dade County, including Miami International Airport, PortMiami, to solid waste, housing access, mobility and emergency management.

2026

MDIA expands its public innovation model to communities across the United States. MDIA becomes the umbrella organization for its national work, while Miami-Dade Innovation Authority remains focused on serving South Florida.

Present

MDIA continues to support communities through dedicated Public Innovation Challenges, with aspirations to build a national network of independent public innovation authorities.