IGNITE YOUR INNER GENIUS:

WALK THE
PATH OF INNOVATION
IN FORT MYERS

Do you dream of a world where imagination meets innovation?
Where history inspires the future?

TAKE THE FIRST STEP ON YOUR PATH TO INNOVATION

THE INNOVATION WALK

So you know how Thomas Edison and Henry Ford sparked the genesis of innovation in Fort Myers?

The Innovation Walk is reigniting this legacy of human genius, melding the past with future-forward thinkers.  This placemaking initiative endeavors to create an activated sidewalk along the historic River District, igniting a new era of global ‘illumineers’. Imagine an augmented reality, virtual reality, iconic sidewalk–that’s the vision.

STEP ONTO THE INNOVATION WALK

A Revolutionary Mile-Long Experience in Fort Myers

  • The Innovation Walk allows you to immerse yourself in interactive exhibits, captivating installations, and groundbreaking technology.
  • Push the boundaries of your imagination and explore the future alongside the community
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Are you an innovator, futurist or maker?

Tell Us More About You!
Download Request for Proposals
A CRA PLACEMAKING INITIATIVE

About the Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA)

The Fort Myers CRA is dedicated to the revitalization and enhancement of the Fort Myers River District and surrounding areas. With a focus on fostering economic growth, enhancing the quality of life, and preserving the unique character of the community, the CRA implements strategies and projects that promote sustainable development and cultural enrichment. The Innovation Walk is a testament to the CRA’s commitment to innovative urban transformation and community engagement.

Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency Logo | Creator of the Placemaking Initiative, The Innovation Walk in Fort Myers, Florida
POWERED BY THE EDISON AWARDS

About the Edison Awards

Renowned for recognizing and honoring the world’s best innovations and innovators, the Edison Awards inspire imagination and ingenuity across the globe. Their partnership in the Innovation Walk project underscores a shared vision for celebrating creativity and technological advancements. The Edison Awards bring their expertise in highlighting groundbreaking ideas and a legacy of encouraging forward-thinking concepts to this collaborative effort.

The Edison Awards Logo | Partner for The Innovation Walk

Other Partners

The Innovation Walk is grateful for the visionary support of  our esteemed collaborators. Their commitment to fostering creativity and celebrating human ingenuity is helping to transform the Fort Myers riverfront into a landmark destination.

Other Partners

The Innovation Walk is grateful for the visionary support of  our esteemed collaborators. Their commitment to fostering creativity and celebrating human ingenuity is helping to transform the Fort Myers riverfront into a landmark destination.

Innovation Walk Timeline: A Journey of Inspiration

The Innovation Walk continues to evolve, and this timeline reflects its exciting journey so far. Stay tuned for future updates as this visionary project transforms the Fort Myers riverfront!
2020

The seed of Innovation Walk is planted! The Edison Awards introduces the concept of a “Walk of Fame” to Fort Myers community leaders.

October 23rd, 2023

The Edison Awards presents the “Walk of Fame” proposal to the Fort Myers CRA.

November 2023

The vision takes shape! The CRA refines the concept into the ambitious Innovation Walk project. The Board of Commissioners recognizes its significance and allocates $500,000 in funding, demonstrating their commitment to transformative urban development. Additionally, the Edison Awards and Lewis Latimer Fellowship provide an introduction and overview to the Board.

February 2024

A proposal is submitted by the CRA and Edison Universe Solutions LLC to create a comprehensive launch event for the Innovation Walk, including multimedia production, photography, promotions, and the official website (theinnovationwalk.com).

April 15th, 2024

The Innovation Walk website goes live, offering a platform for public information and engagement.

April 17th, 2024

The project is officially announced to the public at the 2024 Edison Awards.

April 5th - May 18th, 2024

The call for proposals (RFP) opens, inviting talented creators to submit their visions for the Innovation Walk’s permanent art installations.

May 21st, 2024

A cultivation event is held aboard a yacht, fostering creativity and sparking new ideas among key figures involved in the project.

May 22nd, 2024

The Edison Awards provides an update presentation on the Innovation Walk.

May 23rd, 2024

A dedicated jury convenes to evaluate the proposals submitted for the art installations.

June 26th, 2024

The first three groundbreaking Innovation Walk installations for Phase I are unveiled!

July 2024 (present)

Agreements are finalized with the creators of the chosen Phase I installations, paving the way for their development and implementation.

Contact us to learn more about The Innovation Walk

QUESTIONS?

Complete the form below or send an email to: innovationwalk@cityftmyers.com

Download Request for Proposals

The Innovation Walk isn’t just a stroll; it’s a journey through human ingenuity, sparking wonder and igniting a new era of global “illumineers.”

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