Initial insights from Innovation Strategy development in Wales

Abstract

This paper presents insights from emerging work to support the development of a Culture of Innovation in Wales. The region has been subject of much public policy debate, not least for Innovation Policy during the 20 years since a previous Welsh Government Innovation Strategy. This work focuses on how innovation culture intersects with government policy to develop and implement the Innovation Strategy across all sectors of WG responsibility. The co-production approach adopted by WG presents an open approach to public policy, informed through written submissions, public events, and other stakeholder-specific fora. Drawing upon themes from academic literature and those identified and explored through the consultation, the paper explores the level of alignment between stakeholders and the potential actions to enhance conditions for innovation within Wales. The Wellbeing of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015 provides a unique context for this work, which resonates with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It forms part of a broader and longer-term study intended to support the refinement and delivery of the Innovation Strategy.