UC Downtown Innovation Hub Wins Global Innovation Award

The University of Charleston Downtown Innovation Hub tied for third place as the Best Startup Ecosystem Support Organization in the Global Innovation Management Institute 2024 Innovation Awards. The category is geared toward "recognizing top incubators, accelerators, or hubs that support and foster innovation within the entrepreneurship ecosystem."

To qualify, organizations had to showcase their uniqueness and creativity, be practical and viable, and have the potential for scalability. They also had to demonstrate measurable changes, with clear evidence of the innovation or framework being adopted successfully, and the organization had to demonstrate measurable outcomes, including both financial and non-financial benefits.

Dr Hitendra Patel, CEO of GIMI, mentioned: "The GIMI Innovation Awards 2024 represent a significant milestone in our mission to democratize innovation globally. By recognizing the most exceptional innovations and innovators, we aim to inspire and foster a culture of creativity and excellence. This step is crucial for GIMI as we continue to lead and shape the future of innovation management."

The Global Innovation Management Institute (GIMI) provides world-class training and certification programs, working with organizations to implement best practices in innovation management. GIMI works with the UC Downtown Innovation Hub as a resource for staff, students, and small businesses that participate in the Business Accelerator Program.

The winners were announced at an awards ceremony in Barcelona, Spain, on November 6.