Share your innovative ideas at the LGA’s annual conference
We’ve only just recovered from the Innovation Zone at the LGA’s 2024 annual conference – but it’s time to start thinking about its return at the 2025 event, which will take place from 1–3 July in Liverpool.
Applications are now open for councils, and organisations working with councils, interested in taking part this year.
The Innovation Zone offers a vibrant, creative space and programme within the conference and exhibition, where delegates have the opportunity to attend interactive sessions, sharing learning across the sector.
It brings case studies to life and sheds light on potential solutions to the challenges and issues councils face.
Last year’s programme was the most successful yet, featuring more than 100 speakers from 40-plus local authorities, with standing room only at many sessions.
To provide some inspiration, previous presentations, taking place as part of the main programme, have showcased innovative ideas and practices across a range of topics. These included: using artificial intelligence (AI) to reimagine case management in children’s social care; building sustainable transport links; transforming town centres; or creating a carbon-literate city.
Our ‘Spotlight on’ talks provided more discussions that inspired delegates to think creatively and engage with big ideas.
Subjects ranged from climate change to financial innovation, to how the LGA’s strengthened corporate peer challenge approach can support councils, including those facing the most significant challenges.
The 2024 Innovation Zone programme also featured a series of sessions on adult social care – such as Cheshire’s creation of an integrated, patient-centric discharge pathway, or Hertfordshire’s assistive technology solution to support residents to remain at home for longer.
Solutions to the workforce challenges faced by local government were also a prominent feature of the zone, including a presentation featuring the LGA’s Pathways to Planning graduate scheme and a session by West Midlands Employers on collaborative workforce planning for the future.
All applications are welcomed and encouraged, and, this year, there is particular interest in hearing from projects and perspectives that traverse one or more of the following categories:
- financial resilience
- transformation
- workforce challenges
- community engagement and resident participation
- adults’ and children’s services and managing demand
- managing housing pressures
- climate change, net zero and promoting sustainability
- data-informed decisions
- equalities, diversity and inclusion
- cyber, digital and technology.
If you would like to apply but are unsure whether your idea is the right fit, or if you have any other questions, please email [email protected] and LGA colleagues will provide guidance.
Successful applicants will need to present in person and presentations should be as interactive as possible, to ensure stories are told creatively and in an engaging manner. Sessions will be approximately 30-45 minutes in length, including time for audience questions.
- Apply for a slot in the Innovation Zone, or email, or email [email protected] if you have any questions. Applications close on Monday 3 February