[Top Author Series] Building a Tech-Driven Economy in the Heartland With Nicholas Lalla

Nicholas Lalla is an urbanist and social entrepreneur specializing in economic development and emerging technology. He founded Tulsa Innovation Labs, deploying over $200 million to build northeast Oklahoma's innovation economy. Previously, Nicholas led Cyber NYC for the New York City Economic Development Corporation, a cybersecurity initiative recognized as "among the nation's most ambitious" by The New York Times. He is also the author of Reinventing the Heartland, which lays out a bold and pragmatic plan for urban reinvention, showing cities how to reorient their entire civic ecosystems toward inclusive tech-led growth.

In this episode…

Many mid-sized American cities struggle to reinvent themselves in a rapidly evolving economy, often clinging to legacy industries while missing out on the opportunities of the tech sector. As traditional economic engines falter, communities risk job losses, brain drain, and long-term stagnation. But how can cities without established tech hubs create thriving innovation ecosystems from scratch and position themselves for sustainable growth?

Nicholas Lalla, an urbanist and social entrepreneur, shares a blueprint for how cities can build tech-driven economies tailored to their unique strengths. Drawing on his experience leading transformative initiatives, he highlights the importance of finding a city’s “tech niche,” using data-driven strategies, and engaging key stakeholders to align around a common vision. He emphasizes a corporate-first approach, encouraging cities to collaborate with existing industries to foster innovation and attract startups that address real market needs. Nicholas also underscores the power of public-private partnerships, strategic fundraising, and the importance of leadership that challenges the status quo while fostering community buy-in.

In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz interviews Nicholas Lalla, Founder of Tulsa Innovation Labs, about building inclusive and tech-driven economies in mid-sized cities. Nicholas discusses his journey from New York City to Tulsa, Oklahoma, how he secured over $200 million in funding, and the strategies he used to define Tulsa’s innovation niche. He also dives into leadership lessons, the importance of stakeholder collaboration, and how cities can create lasting economic impact.