Both the quality of an innovation and the extent to which it is used determine the impact it will have on the economy. Economic innovation requires both conceiving new ideas and adapting them into the technologies, processes, business models, and industries that bring improved goods and services to market. Some innovations find expression in entirely new offerings or startups, while others manifest as new efficiencies and business expansion. As a result, the innovations that enable growth are generated by the private sector but can be supported through public policy. Research continues to refine how the public sector can best support an innovation and entrepreneurship system. At root, innovation is the product of vibrant economic activity, a robust business environment, and high-quality human capital. Broad economic development can help to align and improve existing initiatives to create value through the innovation process. Policies and programs regarding economic innovation frequently focus more on spurring new ideas than on expanding their diffusion and adoption. Customary strategies include support for basic scientific research, intellectual property rights, access to capital, and commercial development. Continuous improvement in these areas remains important. However, other local and regional strategies can build on this foundation to leverage new innovations for global competitiveness. For a wave of innovation to drive economic growth, advances need to spread across multiple sectors, attract additional business investment, and translate into higher productivity. Resources and policies for economic development should be tailored to support the efforts of viable young companies attempting to scale up and the adoption of innovations among incumbent businesses. Local and state officials should consider overall economic gains and regional goals in assessing the appropriateness of plans, policies, and programs regarding innovation. Some state policy reforms may be necessary to promote competitiveness, such as changes in regulations regarding non-disclosure or non-compete agreements. The variety of these supports and their effectiveness is significant. CMAP and partners should continue to serve as a resource for information and analysis on regional economic performance, existing resources that support our innovative capacity, and best practices to support industry innovators.