Making stealth innovation successful

It's a common scenario: an idea sparks, sketches are drawn, and a prototype takes shape, all without an official budget. However, there comes a point where the idea stalls unless it receives official funding within the organization. At this juncture, middle managers face a dilemma. They may have shared the idea earlier without requesting a budget, but now they must decide on the next steps.

If the manager decides to halt the innovation idea, it's likely to disappoint the team. On the other hand, supporting the idea might pose a career risk. So, how can this issue be resolved?

The solution lies in a process of gradual communication:

• Engage Stakeholders Early: Involve all stakeholders at the outset to discuss the challenge or opportunity. Share your concerns and thoughts, creating a foundation for future discussions.

• Team Collaboration: Inform your stakeholders that your team is actively brainstorming and iterating on ideas. Emphasize that this is a collaborative effort.

• Iterative Communication: Continue to communicate regularly with stakeholders. Encourage them to share their perspectives and ideas as well. By consistently involving them, there's a greater chance of early buy-in and positive engagement.

By following this approach, you can navigate the funding and innovation process more effectively, minimizing disappointment and career risks for middle managers while fostering a culture of collaboration.