Vision, Mission, Values

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Strategic planning is more than an activity it is a commitment to a shared future.

At the Alliance for Innovation, strategic planning has always been part of how we grow alongside our members, and 2026 is no exception. This year, we are actively working with our Board of Directors and our members to shape our future offerings and evolve the services we provide to local government leaders across the country.

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We teach our members the importance of evolution and adaptation, and we apply that same philosophy to our own work.

Strategic planning helps an organization move from reacting to immediate needs toward intentionally shaping long-term impact. For mission-driven organizations like ours it provides clarity about where to focus energy, how to align people and resources, and how to measure progress over time.

Most importantly, strategic planning is not something we do alone, it is something we do together.

We invite you to participate in the 2026 Listening Tour

Help influence the reimagined Alliance in 2027 where we bring the best of the past forward into a bright future.

Your perspective will help shape the programs, partnerships, and innovation capacity-building and strategic foresight work that support communities across the country.

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2026 Vision, Mission and Values

Vision

Partnering to build more resilient, sustainable, and equitable communities through innovation, foresight and collaboration.

Mission

To equip those at the forefront of local governance with an enhanced capacity to anticipate, adapt, and build better communities.

Values

Trust Building

Building trust and accountability between local governments and their citizens.

Innovation

Encouraging creative problem-solving and embracing new approaches to governance.

Courage

Be risk tolerant and act from vision and purpose despite fear.

Collaboration

Fostering teamwork between leaders, staff, and citizens to create impactful solutions.

Foresight

Navigate uncertainty, anticipate emerging trends, and develop aspirational visions of a better tomorrow.  

Excellence

Striving for high standards in public service and leadership.

Equity

Promoting fairness and inclusivity in all government actions.