Question 1

What is the Institute for Nonpartisan Innovation (INI)?

Accepted Answer

INI is a collaborative initiative co-powered by CUNY and Vngle, designed to bridge classrooms, communities, and civic technology. INI connects students, faculty, and community partners to co-create civic innovation projects that link research, storytelling, and real-time data for the public good.

Question 2

How did INI start?

Accepted Answer

INI started after more than five years of collaborative R&D within CUNY, primarily through John Jay College & City Tech, in partnership with CUNY 2X Tech & the CUNY Tech Talent Pipeline. The goal was to help accelerate community-connected applied learning, civic engagement, & workforce development.

Question 3

How does INI operate within CUNY?

Accepted Answer

INI operates as a collaborative initiative powered by CUNY partnerships and Vngle, not as a standalone external entity. It complements existing CUNY programs by providing shared tools, data systems, and frameworks that link classroom discovery with real-time civic data and public-interest innovation

Question 4

What is the goal of this event?

Accepted Answer

This CUNY-wide showcase highlights how campuses are becoming civic innovation hubs. It celebrates projects already launched through INI and invites new collaborators—students, faculty, and community organizations—to co-create the next phase of this growing network.

Question 5

Who should attend?

Accepted Answer

CUNY students, faculty, and administrators interested in civic engagement, applied research, journalism, or community partnerships—as well as nonprofits, local leaders, and innovation partners eager to collaborate on real-world impact.

Question 6

How is Vngle involved?

Accepted Answer

Vngle is a civic insights company that co-powers INI with CUNY. Its technology provides verified grassroots reporting and real-time civic data, helping campuses and communities eliminate blind spots and make more informed, equitable decisions. (It was also founded by CUNY J-School alum Blake Stoner)

Question 7

What will I gain from attending?

Accepted Answer

You’ll see how INI is transforming civic learning through technology and collaboration. Discover real examples of student and faculty-led projects, and learn how to bring similar civic innovation models to your campus or community organization.

Question 8

Is this event open to the public?

Accepted Answer

Yes! While INI is rooted in CUNY, this event welcomes educators, civic innovators, and community partners from across New York City who want to learn, connect, and collaborate.

Question 9

How can I get involved after the event?

Accepted Answer

You can join the INI Network to collaborate on projects, mentor students, host civic labs, or contribute local insights in your community. Opportunities for upcoming fellowships, partnerships, and research pilots will be announced during and after the event.

Question 10

Will the event be live-streamed or recorded?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the event will be streamed and recorded for those who can’t attend in person. Registered attendees will receive follow-up details via email.

Question 11

Who can I contact for more information?

Accepted Answer

Reach out to ini@vngle.com

Reimagining CUNY's Civic Future | Institute for Nonpartisan Innovation

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