idealist.org

The Initiative for a Competitive Inner City (ICIC) is a national, not-for-profit organization founded in 1994 by Harvard Business School Professor Michael E. Porter. ICIC identifies market-based growth opportunities through our world- class research, consulting and programs. We believe that market-driven growth leads to sustainable jobs, income and wealth for inner city residents. ICIC changes perceptions and unites corporate and civic leaders to take action. An inner city renaissance is possible, and ICIC is helping to make it a reality.

ICIC advocates a paradigm shift in the approach to inner-city economic development. We seek to replace the traditional focus on urban blight and community deficiencies with a more constructive focus on market opportunities. The concepts behind ICIC were articulated by Professor Porter in his widely disseminated article, “The Competitive Advantage of the Inner City” (May/June 1995 issue of the Harvard Business Review).