Pioneering Digital Communities
Learn about the organizations behind America's first Digital Mainstreet and our mission to transform communities through innovative technology integration.
iNeighborhoods is a St. Louis-based digital community venture that integrates IoT, blockchain, and Intelligent Community Wi-Fi to build digitally enabled districts that foster economic growth and measurable social impact.
Core Expertise:
- Digital District Development & Community Planning
- Smart Technology Integration and Sensor Networks
- Geospatial Technology & Urban Design Innovation
- Community Safety & Economic Growth Initiatives
BEAR Studios is a student-run consulting organization at Washington University in St. Louis, offering interdisciplinary talent and services to startups, nonprofits, and corporate innovation teams through an innovative and entrepreneurial approach.
Services & Approach:
- High-Quality, Cost-Effective Design & Strategy Services
- Undergraduate Talent Leveraging for Innovation
- Technology Solutions & Digital Infrastructure Support
- Academic-Industry Bridge Building
To create inclusive, technology-driven environments that enhance socio-economic opportunities, foster community engagement, and integrate smart urban design. We believe in leveraging cutting-edge technology to build vibrant spaces that attract businesses, support local entrepreneurs, and create sustainable economic growth.
To establish a replicable model for Digital Mainstreets across America, where communities can harness the power of IoT, blockchain, and intelligent infrastructure to create dynamic digital ecosystems that benefit residents, businesses, educators, and visitors while preserving cultural heritage and promoting inclusive growth.
2016 - The Beginning
Our journey began during the 2016 Delmar Loop Social Impact Hackathon, led by Emre Toker, then-director of the Skandalaris Center. This pivotal event sparked the community-driven momentum that continues to drive our innovation today.
2019 - New Jersey Innovation Institute (NJII) NJEDA Innovation Challenge Grant - Plainfield NJ
Received funding and support from the New Jersey Innovation Institute for community technology development and proof-of-concept testing.
2022-2025 - Development & Testing
Three years of intensive collaboration between iNeighborhoods and BEAR Studios, with real-world development and proof-of-concept testing taking place at Michigan City Area Schools in Michigan City, Indiana, led by Kevin McGuire, Director of Technology Services.
2025 - Digital Mainstreet Launch
Official designation of the Delmar Loop as America's first Digital Mainstreet, combining years of research, development, and community engagement into a comprehensive digital district platform ready for broader public use.