Upcoming Events
Innovation Exchange
The Innovation Exchange, where civic ideas come to life, took place on Oct. 16, 2025 at City Hall, drawing a big crowd for:
- Inspiring keynotes from Washington State Chief Technical Officer Gretchen Peri and Vidhu Shekhar, Microsoft's government strategy leader
- Lightning talks on AI-powered permitting, digital twins and smart civic infrastructure
- Interactive tracks on civic transformation, AI productivity and workforce innovation
- Engaging workshops on AI ethics, small business tools and creative coding
- A vibrant evening plaza experience with music, food and community showcases
What began as the Inclusive Innovation Forum, has now evolved into "The Exchange," a dynamic model for how cities can meaningfully connect innovation, inclusion, community, business and startups to deliver impactful services.
Explore highlights from The Exchange, featuring keynotes, lightning talks, workshops, and an evening plaza full of music, food, and community.
Event Survey
Whether you were able to attend or unable to join us this time, we value your input and would love to hear your thoughts.
Innovation Forum
The Inclusive Innovation Forum brings together diverse stakeholders to collaborate on innovative solutions that enhance city services and improve the quality of life for all residents.
The forum was started in 2024, after stakeholder interviews, a public survey and a preview event to gather input. Volunteers and Bellevue staff have formed three subteams to help advance work — Digital Equity, Policy and Prioritization, and Innovative Partnerships. Forum volunteers help support short- and long-term goals across all three areas of focus.
In 2025, the forum held quarterly meetings in March and June. An all-day Innovation Exchange meeting took place on Thursday, Oct. 16.
Digital Equity
Bellevue seeks to empower all individuals in the community to fully participate in the digital world, regardless of their background, race, income, language, education or location.
Policy and Prioritization
Provides meaningful input to city staff on community priorities and policies to help advance inclusive innovation opportunities in government service delivery.
Innovation Partnerships
Support collaboration and beneficial relationships between startups, nonprofits, corporations, investors, academia and residents—and foster innovation that impacts the entire community.
Information Technology
