Defining a Tool for Fostering an Innovation Culture in Portuguese Local Governments

The current global scenario, characterized by intense competition and constant challenges, has made innovation a fundamental pillar for organizations, particularly in the public sector and local governments. This chapter explores the importance of innovation in developing capacities and promoting an influential innovation culture in Portuguese local governments, with a particular focus on the local government of Cascais. We propose the “Local Innovation Culture Self-Assessment Tool” (FACIL), which contains innovative approaches to support local governments and was designed to assess, quantify, and enhance innovation. The methodology follows a qualitative approach, using semi-structured interviews as the data collection technique. The “FACIL Game” emerges from this study as a valuable tool that promotes a dynamic and participatory assessment of local authorities’ innovation culture. Its adoption fosters an environment of effective worker participation and reflection, facilitating the identification of improvement strategies and innovative opportunities.