State DOT innovation programs highlight the best and brightest ideas brought forward and implemented by transportation agency staff. These incorporate a wide range of goals and activities, from showcases and competitions to web-based tools that help capture innovations.
No Boundaries has compiled this searchable and sortable list of state DOT innovation programs. Following this table are links to additional resources on state transportation innovation programs.
If your state DOT innovation program is not listed here, please contact No Boundaries.
Innovation Programs by State
| State | Type | Name and Link | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | Contest | Everyday Lean Innovations & Ideas | Annual competition for employees. |
| Connecticut | Program | CT Creative Solutions Award Program | This annual program for public transportation agency staff was developed in partnership with the University of Connecticut. |
| Colorado | Program | Lean Everyday Ideas Program | Program accepts submissions for innovation and improvement from CDOT employees. |
| Illinois | Contest | Innovative Ideas Contest | Competition for DOT employees, held annually since 2018. |
| Iowa | Program | Ideas site | Public-facing site accepts submissions year-round. |
| Louisiana | Contest | Innovations Showcase | Annual competition open to all full-time DOTD employees within the Office of Operations. |
| Massachusetts | Event | Transportation Innovation Conference | Annual conference providing a forum for innovative transportation systems, management ideas, and initiatives. |
| Minnesota | Program | Minnesota Transportation Research Collaboration Site | Online form accepts research and implementation ideas from staff and the general public. |
| Missouri | Contest | Innovations Challenge | Annual DOT employee competition culminates in an Innovations Showcase. |
| North Dakota | Program | Transportation Innovation Program (TRIP) | Program accepts submissions from anyone for innovative ideas in transportation projects, processes and products. |
| Pennsylvania | Contest | Innovations Challenge | Annual competition open to open to high school students. |
| Pennsylvania | Program | WorkSmart and IdeaLink 20/20 | Online portals designed for DOT employees to share ideas. |
| Texas | Program | TxDOT Innovation and Cost Efficiency | DOT employees and members of the public can submit and vote on ideas on a quarterly basis. |
| Utah | Program | Innovation Station | Statewide program for DOT employees. |
Additional Resources
- State Transportation Innovation Council (STIC) program and STIC projects by state, Federal Highway Administration
- Lessons Learned from State DOTs on Innovation and Knowledge Management Programs, North Carolina Department of Transportation, March 2021.
- Innovation Program Study, No Boundaries Roadway Maintenance Pooled Fund, December 2018
- Fostering Innovation within State Departments of Transportation, California Department of Transportation, July 2015.