MOVING A NATION UPWARD
When it comes to innovation and entrepreneurship, America's first tier cities have long thrived. As innovation efforts have largely been concentrated in a few major cities, most second tier cities have struggled to expand local industry opportunities and retain qualified talent in favor of metropolitan hubs that promote a culture of possibility and permission.
Decades of decline have been amplified by economic disruption in the wake of COVID-19. Leaders of America's legacy cities are realizing the need to revitalize their business districts with contemporary infrastructure, additional enterprise, and employment opportunities. Otherwise, they face the detrimental effects of economic and social instability that will impact the city for generations to come.
The whole of our nation has not yet realized the true prowess of domestic industry innovation. There is a strong public and private interest to reactivate urban cores throughout the country by transforming them into thriving hubs of innovation, community, and co-creation: ultimately, building a tech-enabled, inclusive, and self-sustaining America.
Upward has identified an opportunity to build a united, cross-industry innovation network comprised of multiple cities across the United States.
FOCUS INDUSTRIES
Healthcare
Real Estate
Agriculture
Retail
Infrastructure
Energy
Manufacturing
Finance
Defense
Automotive
OUR PARTNERS
LOCAL
Relationships
Upward's partnerships with domestic industry leaders, higher education institutions, and community leaders are the foundation of our national ecosystem.
By deepening our relationships with each city's existing innovation players, we strengthen our national network of resources and fast-track deployment of critical industry solutions.
ACTIVE
Innovation
After understanding the challenges of our enterprise and civic partners, we custom-match the most mature industry innovations in an immersive pilot experience.
Upward's signature pilot programs are designed to accelerate commercialization of startup technologies, stimulate local job growth, and dually engage the public and private sectors on the path to measurable growth for each city.
ECONOMIC
Prosperity
We envision cities powered
by mature startups and best-in-class talent collaborating with industry leaders to solve critical challenges.
By connecting legacy industry with cutting-edge technology, we attract a globally competitive workforce that is motivated to live, work, and thrive within the city, thereby stimulating economic development across the region.
