Innovation Fellows Program (E.O. 13704)

Summary

Creates a program to bring skilled people from the private sector into the government for a short time to help solve the nation's biggest problems.

What problem does this solve?

The federal government needs to attract skilled technology experts to help solve the country's most pressing challenges. This order creates the Presidential Innovation Fellows Program to recruit these experts for temporary service in government agencies.

What does this order do?

Establishes the Presidential Innovation Fellows Program

Creates a program for skilled individuals to serve in short-term government appointments to work on significant national challenges using innovative technology.

Assigns program management to the General Services Administration (GSA)

The Administrator of General Services is responsible for establishing the program, appointing a Director, and providing staff and support.

Creates an advisory board

Establishes an Advisory Board to recommend priorities and standards for the program. The board will not participate in the selection of Fellows.

Defines appointment terms for fellows

Specifies that Fellows will serve in short-term, time-limited appointments, generally lasting from 6 months to 2 years.

Who does this affect?

Technology and innovation experts
Federal government agencies
The American public

What is the real world impact?

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Brings private sector innovation into government

Aims to make the government work better and save taxpayer money by using the skills of successful entrepreneurs and tech experts to solve major national problems.

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Creates a fast track for tech talent

Provides a way to quickly bring in outside experts for short-term projects, potentially bypassing standard civil service hiring rules. This could lead to concerns about influence from the private sector.

When does this start?

This order takes effect on August 17, 2015.