World Creativity and Innovation Day

World Creativity and Innovation Day History

World Creativity and Innovation Day (WCID) celebrates the importance of creativity and innovation in society. It emphasizes the vital role they play in economic growth, solving societal problems, and laying the path towards a sustainable future. Observed globally, this day fosters collaborations, conversations, and actions centered around new ideas, approaches, concepts, and imaginative solutions.

The United Nations officially recognised the day in 2018, but it had been observed informally since 2002. In Australia, the relevance of WCID cannot be overlooked. The country, renowned for its innovative minds like scientists Howard Florey and Elizabeth Blackburn, places great emphasis on innovative ideas, from biotechnology to renewable energy. Australia's creative economy contributes significantly to its GDP, with sectors such as arts, culture, design, technology, and innovation driving economic growth. More broadly, Australians recognise the importance of fostering a creative and innovative mindset in not only scientific and technological fields, but also in social, educational, and environmental arenas.

World Creativity and Innovation Day is observed in various ways across Australia, from promoting creativity in schools to encouraging innovative activities at workplaces. Public and private sector organisations often hold workshops, seminars, and competitions to inspire creativity. Universities and research centres stage exhibitions, displaying innovative ideas. There is also increased media attention on awards for innovation, creating a national conversation around the role of creativity and innovation in shaping Australia's future. World Creativity and Innovation Day is observed each year on 21st April.

Facts about World Creativity and Innovation Day

• The theme for World Creativity & Innovation Day in 2023 was Step Out and Innovate. In 2022 the theme was Collaboration.
• According to the United Nations, the world’s cultural and creative industry generates about $2.25 billion in revenue. It also creates more than 29 million jobs worldwide.
• Australian creative industries generate over $90 billion annually, contributing about 3% to the country's GDP, and employ almost 6% of the workforce.
• Numerous programs and grants are available in Australia to promote innovation such as Research and Development (R&D) tax incentives scheme, Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) Program, and Entrepreneurs' Program.

In the News and Trending in Australia for World Creativity and Innovation Day

Top things to do in Australia for this observance

• Participate in the 2024 World Creativity and Innovation Day celebrations.
• Watch the 2024 World Creativity and Innovation Day manifesto video
• Explore 5 world-changing ideas that demonstrate what humans are capable of.
• Visit Museums or galleries: Many of Australia's museums celebrate innovation, creativity, and technology. For example, the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) in Tasmania, Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney, the Powerhouse Museum which also hosts the annual Sydney Design Festival.
• Participate in the Innovators Tea Party: This event aims to inspire young women to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). It features female professionals in these fields who share their experience and innovative ideas.