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The Geography of Innovation

2016 Fort Worth South, Inc. Shindig

How do you define the Near Southside?

Medical district. Creative hub. Historic neighborhood. Restaurant row. Entertainment destination. Incubator. Our district is all of those, and more.

At the national level, districts similar to ours – defined by a powerful cocktail of medical and manufacturing, retail and residential, creative capital and caffeine – have become the research focus for leading urban experts. The Rise of Innovation Districts: A New Geography of Innovation in America is a report by Bruce Katz and Julie Wagner of the Brookings Institution in which they explain:

A new complementary urban model is now emerging, giving rise to what we and others are calling “innovation districts.” These districts, by our definition, are geographic areas where leading-edge anchor institutions and companies cluster and connect with start-ups, business incubators and accelerators. They are also physically compact, transit-accessible, technically-wired, and offer mixed-use housing, office, and retail.

Last year, you helped us celebrate 20 years of accomplishments that changed perceptions and created the Near Southside of today. This year in addition to Mr. Katz’s keynote address we will present stories of tomorrow’s landmark innovations, mostly unknown to the public, currently underway in the Near Southside. First, please mark your calendars for Friday, February 19, 5:30-9 pm at the Omni Hotel at 1300 Houston Street, and spread the word to friends and colleagues that might be interested in joining the fun.

Second, please review these sponsor opportunities to see how FWSI’s annual dinner provides a great opportunity to support the organization’s continued work while also showcasing your company’s innovative spirit to the thousands that we’ll reach through the event’s publicity efforts. This event is FWSI’s only annual fundraiser. It’s a testament to the amazing community support received each year that allows FWSI to pursue revitalization through dozens of exciting initiatives.

Thanks for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Paul Paine

President

Fort Worth South, Inc.

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Announcing ArtSouth

A Near Southside Artist Residency

We’ve been listening.

The Near Southside has long been the residential and professional nerve center of much of Fort Worth’s creative class. Artists of all ilks have been, and continue to be, critical partners in the revitalization of the district by locating their studios, galleries, professional offices and projects in pioneering areas of the Near Southside. Currently 60 creative firms, galleries, and studios are headquartered here, and many more are looking for opportunities to join the excitement and energy of Fort Worth’s premier creative district.

As demand for property in the district rises, many question how the Near Southside will continue to embrace artists. Will the district preserve affordable and desirable workspaces? Will new developments incorporate art into their designs? Can we attract innovative public art concepts?

More than ever, there is a hunger for public art in the Near Southside. Artists are eager for opportunity. The Near Southside community is intent on finding creative solutions.

Today, we announce a program that does just this. Follow our journey at #artsouth.

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Browse the Near Southside Guide

Check out this comprehensive listing of the Near Southside’s many restaurants and retail destinations! The Near Southside Guide has all of the information you need to enjoy and explore the neighborhood. From nightlife to brewery tours, bed and breakfasts to bars and pubs, we’ve packaged our best locally owned and operated businesses for your convenience. Click the cover graphic on the left to browse the guide.

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