Pennsylvania honors government efficiency at first innovation expo

Pennsylvania hosted its first Innovation Expo Wednesday that highlighted projects undertaken by more than 20 state agencies to reduce spending, eliminate waste and improve service.

“Pennsylvanians expect and deserve government that is efficient, effective and responsive to their needs,” Governor Tom Corbett said. “Through the Governor’s Innovation Initiative, we are making meaningful and measureable progress toward that goal.”

Innovation of the Year Awards will be presented to the top three innovative projects, as judged by a panel of volunteer private sector judges. Awards will also go to the top three innovation booths at the event.

The Governor’s Innovation Office has tracked more than 80 projects with a combined $175 million in cost savings and productivity gains. An additional 140 projects with an estimated $200 million in savings and productivity are in progress.

“There is a lot of great work being done in state agencies to streamline operations and save money,” Kelly Powell Logan, secretary of administration, said. “It is important that we recognize these achievements and create a culture in state government that values innovation and supports constant improvement.”