b'A Catalyst for ChangeCitygate Networks Innovation & Impact Labsby David CaseySeattles Union Gospel MissionThe Innovation & Impact Labs represent a bold newThe labs are designed to share best practices, nurture approach to equipping missions and ministries across theinnovation, and create a ripple effect of transformation country. Born out of a sense of urgency to address theacross the country. To this end, every conversation and ev-growing homelessness crisis, the labs are designed toery strategy session is built on the belief that transformed move organizations from inspiration to implementation.ministries lead to transformed lives. The labs provide immersive, hands-on experiences thatGod calls us to bear fruitmuch fruit and fruit that combine proven strategies, collaborative learning, andlasts, said Scott Chin, president of Seattles Union Gospel practical tools to help missions create lasting change. Un- Mission (SUGM). These labs are about equipping leaders like traditional conferences, the labs focus on depth ratherto do just that. than breadth, providing participants with personalized coaching, actionable plans, and ongoing support.Inside the April labA vision born from urgency Months of preparation went into the 2025 April Innova-tion & Impact Lab at SUGM. The Innovation & Impact Labs were inspired by Tom DeParticipating missions completed pre-event assess-Vriess, president & CEO of Citygate Network, desire toments that revealed strengths and weaknesses, prompt-see every mission and life transformation ministry thriveing honest conversations. These evaluations asked hard at a time when our cities need us more than ever. As aquestions about financial health, program effectiveness, movement of gospel-centered ministries, we are embrac- and leadership capacity. For some, it was a wake-up call ing the opportunity to leverage one anothers strengths inand a chance to have honest conversations with their pursuit of stronger, more unified Kingdom work. teams. For others, it confirmed areas of strength and While many ministries have conducted site visits before,highlighted growth opportunities. the labs seek to elevate this practice to a new level. WithThis level of transparency set the tone for the entire lab this vision in mind, the idea of immersive learning environ- experience and ensured that every session was relevant ments was born. To begin the effort, three missions wereand impactful. Mission leaders arrived knowing they would invited to host the labs concept in their respective cities:leave with a 90-day action plan that would be a roadmap Seattle, Baltimore, and Atlanta. for how they could improve after they left.These labs are not just about sharing ideas and foster- Getting better isnt easy, but its easier when you have ing innovation but about creating a movement of collabo- proven approaches and a clear plan, Scott said.ration, results, and excellence. Homelessness is growing exponentially, and without continuous improvement,For three days, mission leaders gathered at SUGM for missions will fall behind.sessions on organizational health, trauma-informed care, 41 INSTIGATE|January/February|2026'