About – The Innovation in Politics Institute

Who We Are

The Innovation in Politics Institute is a mission-driven organisation dedicated to advancing democracy in Europe and beyond. We drive practical, results-oriented initiatives to tackle complex challenges that no stakeholder can solve alone.

By developing multi-stakeholder collaborations, offering training and networking opportunities, and recognising outstanding political work, we empower political professionals to create impactful solutions. Through our Mission Partnerships, we deliver transformative solutions in the public interest.

With offices in Vienna and Berlin and an active Europe-wide network, we shape the future of democratic governance.

Our Story

Founded in 2016, the Innovation in Politics Institute has been at the forefront of strengthening democracy across Europe by supporting organizations and institutions in developing and implementing innovative projects.

Our pilot initiative, The Innovation in Politics Awards, was launched in 2017 to recognize excellence, inspire new ideas, and drive meaningful change. Selected by a Citizens’ Jury of Europeans, the Awards feature best practices in political innovation across Europe and have built the largest database of pioneering democratic initiatives. The Awards are now operated by the European Capital of Democracy (ECoD) — another flagship initiative of the Institute, alongside Truth, Lies & Democracy, Art of Democracy, and the ACT NOW Mayors’ Conference.

Established as a non-profit in 2021 under the auspices of the Council of Europe, ECoD enables European cities to showcase democratic innovation. The title is awarded through a Citizens’ Jury, ensuring that the selection reflects the voice of European citizens.

In 2023, the Institute expanded its focus to innovation in education, founding the Hub for Hub for Education Innovation Vienna (HEIV), a non-profit organization that also organizes the Vienna Education Festival.

Over the years, the Institute has served as an incubator for political innovation and bold entrepreneurial initiatives, launching projects such as Democracy Technologies, and specialised Briefings for political professionals. Through these efforts, we continue to drive forward new approaches to democratic governance.