Innovation is one of our corporate values at the Region of Durham. We make sure innovation and research are integrated into our daily work and the way we deliver services to the community. Our dedicated Innovation and Research team works with staff and local, national and global partners. We drive initiatives that support our programs and services to achieve the priorities of the Durham Region 2020-2024 Strategic Plan. Located within the Office of the CAO, the team brings a diverse set of skills including design thinking, facilitation, research methods, evaluation and multimedia expertise.
Innovation includes everything from a new, exciting technology to day-to-day process improvements that enhance our services.
| What we do |
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The Innovation and Research team works to build a culture of innovation across the organization. We support the Region’s strategic priorities of continuous improvement and enhanced service delivery. We provide expertise and support to staff through all the stages of innovation from ideation to implementation. We:
- Create a space for staff to share ideas and co-create solutions
- Celebrate innovation and research projects through an annual Innovation Forum
- Foster collaboration with internal departments, community organizations, academic institutions and others
- Build capacity for innovation and research through training
We are eager to share knowledge, build partnerships and collaborate. We love to connect with you. Reach out to us at innovate@durham.ca
Want to learn more about the innovative projects at the Region? Here are just a few...
| CityStudio Durham |
| CityStudio Durham is a collaboration between the Region of Durham, Durham Regional Police Service, Durham College, Ontario Tech University and Trent University Durham-GTA. This strengthens partnerships between Regional staff, academic institutions, and the community, Durham's post-secondary students have real opportunities to apply their skills, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit to challenges facing our community to shape a better future for our region. For more information visit durham.ca/CityStudio. |
| Annual Innovation and Research Forum |
| Our annual Innovation and Research Forum brings together local partners and employees from across the Region to share stories of innovation and the effects they have had on our communities. |
| Community Partnerships |
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We're working with academic institutions, community organizations, other municipal governments and associations to share knowledge and create new possibilities together.
- Trusteed Youth project - This project looks at ways to find stable housing and supports for youth under 18 who receive government assistance and live on their own (“trusteed youth”).
- Brain Builders - Organized by Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, this project uses teachings from brain science to show the impact that early childhood education can have on child development.
- Social Competence in Early Learning – Using co-production, this project aims to support the development of social competence in preschool children through multi-stakeholder engagement.
- Many more...
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| Intelligent Communities |
| Durham is committed to taking a smart cities approach to connecting with people to address economic, social and environmental challenges. Learn more at durham.ca/IntelligentCommunities |
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