Join MetroLab

A national network of local
government and academic partnerships

MetroLab’s mission is focused on the belief that when local governments and universities work together, innovation can thrive in a catalytic and inclusive manner. At its core, MetroLab is a convener and thought leader, living at the intersection of research and implementation. We invite you to join our network to learn best practices emerging from local government-academia partnerships, connect with innovators, and participate in MetroLab programming.

MetroLab Member

By supporting MetroLab as a member, your organization will gain access to invite-only programming and thought leadership contributions. In addition, the financial support will enable MetroLab to take on a set of priorities that will advance the work underway among our members.

Membership applications no longer require additional partners. Membership is a commitment from your organization.

MetroLab membership is available to cities, counties, tribes, universities, and colleges. The 2023-2024 programming cycle begins August 1, 2023.

Cities & Counties
$1,500/yr

Benefits

  • Invitation-only virtual roundtable discussions with MetroLab members on relevant policy topics (examples include city-wide data governance, mobility as a service, decarbonization).
  • Semi-annual meetings with MetroLab leadership that provide MetroLab the opportunity to learn more about your current projects (and how to amplify your stories), how best to support you, and how we can connect you to other resources.
  • Two complimentary tickets to the annual MetroLab Summit.
  • Member and affiliate-only opportunities curated by MetroLab staff. 

Universities & Colleges
$2,500/yr

Benefits

  • Invitation-only virtual roundtable discussions with MetroLab members on relevant policy topics (examples include research projects, digital equity, fellowship opportunities). 
  • Semi-annual meetings with MetroLab leadership that provide MetroLab the opportunity to learn more about your current projects (and how to amplify your stories), how best to support you, and how we can connect you to other resources. 
  • Two complimentary tickets to the annual MetroLab Summit. 
  • Member and affiliate-only opportunities curated by MetroLab staff. 
  • Programming dedicated to supporting students, including MetroLab project competitions such as the Student Cup Awards and the Civic Research Innovation Prize, and highlighting fellowship/internship opportunities.

Regional Innovation Nonprofits
$1,500/yr

Benefits

  • Invitation-only virtual roundtable discussions with MetroLab members on relevant policy topics (examples include city-wide data governance, mobility as a service, decarbonization).
  • Semi-annual meetings with MetroLab leadership that provide MetroLab the opportunity to learn more about your current projects (and how to amplify your stories), how best to support you, and how we can connect you to other resources.
  • Two complimentary tickets to the annual MetroLab Summit.
  • Member-only opportunities curated by MetroLab staff.
  • Cross promotion of MetroLab and Regional Innovation Nonprofit events, programs, research, and news
  • Cross promotion of MetroLab and Regional Innovation Nonprofit partnership on each organization’s website

INRIX - MetroLab Challenge

MetroLab's first strategic partnership of this membership cycle with INRIX has closed.  We look forward to announcing the finalists soon!

MetroLab Affiliate

At its core, MetroLab is a connector. We strive to be as inclusive as possible and recognize that financial requirements can become a barrier to involvement. MetroLab offers a one-year membership trial as a MetroLab Affiliate.

This option is available at no cost. To become an affiliate, please submit an application. The application must demonstrate a desire to join collaborative efforts in furthering civic innovation and research, and highlight expertise and resources that may contribute to future work.

MetroLab Affiliate is available to cities, counties, tribes, universities, and colleges. The 2023-2024 programming cycle begins August 1, 2023.

Benefits

  • Invitation and discounted tickets to the annual MetroLab Summit. 
  • Member and affiliate-only opportunities curated by MetroLab staff.
  • Regular updates on partnership opportunities, MetroLab programming, and other relevant updates from MetroLab members and affiliates.