University of Tennessee, Knoxville Innovation Ecosystem Strategy
University of Tennessee
HR&A worked with UT-Knoxville to assess the regional innovation ecosystem and develop a strategic framework for place-based investments. Our comprehensive research and stakeholder engagement provided the university with a clear roadmap for leveraging its assets to catalyze regional economic development and innovation.
UT-Knoxville sought to understand how it could most effectively serve as a catalyst, connector, and convener within the regional innovation ecosystem. HR&A conducted extensive stakeholder engagement, connecting with approximately 70 leaders across the university, regional institutions, industry, and government to understand the area’s economic landscape and innovation potential. We analyzed three relevant case studies—NC State’s Centennial Campus, Cummings Research Park in Huntsville, and Clemson’s International Center for Automotive Research—to identify best practices around university leadership, federal-industry collaboration, and talent attraction through urban environments.
Building on these insights, HR&A mapped Knoxville’s existing innovation assets, including university programs, industry clusters, and economic development agencies, while identifying opportunities for new connections that could create value across multiple stakeholders. We also conducted a comprehensive market analysis of Knoxville’s real estate economy to understand how supply and demand dynamics could support place-based investment strategies. This work equipped UT-Knoxville with both a clear understanding of their regional innovation ecosystem and a strategic framework for making targeted investments that leverage the university’s unique position to drive economic growth and strengthen community partnerships throughout the region.
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