Bruce visited Sheffield in January 2015, and spoke about the potential that Innovation Districts may have on a place like Sheffield, and the surrounding area. Bruce Katz is a global expert on the development of Innovation Districts, which bring economic growth and help to create clusters of companies ranging from original equipment manufacturers to smaller suppliers and start-ups. Innovation Districts combine research institutions, innovative firms and business incubators with the benefits of urban living. Unlike traditional science parks, these districts cluster cutting-edge research in geographic areas that are liveable, walkable, bike-able, and transit connected. Bruce is the Vice President of the Washington DC-based Brookings Institution and author of The Rise of Innovation Districts. Previously, Bruce was Chief of Staff, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and co-led the Housing & Urban Development Transition team for the President Obama.