State, Regional Entities Seek GID Lab Services

Federal and state cuts in funding for health and human services brought such clients as the Washington State Department of Health, Greater Tacoma Community Foundation, (GTCF) and Amara to the Global Innovation and Design Lab during Summer and Fall 2025, each seeking design thinking workshops to innovate through barriers to essential resources. 

Earlier in the year, the GID Lab had facilitated a design sprint for GTCF's Local Advisory Team to develop a framework and value-driven process for the distribution of $1.8 million from the Washington State Department of Commerce's Community Reinvestment Project.  

"Our communities are facing challenges that need every voice at the table. It is such a privilege to witness game-changing moments and be part of the joy of problem-solving together," says Dr. Divya McMillin, GID Lab co-founder and lead facilitator. "Our workshops are not just for solving problems, they are for connections and inspiration across sectors." 

Hospitality is a signature of the GID Lab, with a dedicated team of staff and interns to support the workshops, bringing a high level of professionalism to months-long processes that include user research, empathy interview training, and design sprints. The staff team is led by the newly appointed Managing Director, Alyce McNeil, who brings over 20 years of experience in client and project management from the insurance industry. The GID Lab Internship is a multi-quarter microcredential, culminating in a digital badge and presentation at the annual Global Engagement Conference hosted by the GID Lab's home, the Institute for Innovation and Global Engagement.  

"Our students gain valuable hands-on experience, and we are well positioned to serve our growing volume of clients," says McMillin.