Innovation Ecosystem

The best way to improve a city is by mobilising its citizens. Shapers in the Manama Hub propose creating a city sandbox or innovation ecosystem that promotes innovations in infrastructure, urban services and governance to improve the lives of citizens. Whether smart energy grids, e-governance devices, 3D printing to tackle homelessness or AI solutions to combat tragffic congestion, this sandbox would provide a testing ground for new ideas to accelerate inclusive urban development. Shapers propose that the sandbox be governed by a multi-stakeholder body consisting of public and private sector representatives, as well as academia and independent members, who can monitor and assess the development of projects and raise concerns should solutions not expand opportunities for all members of society.