Innovation as a Practice: Key Takeaways from The Innovative 50

At Milesbrand, we don’t just help our clients build great brands – we help them shape meaningful experiences. That’s why events like The Innovative 50 matter.

Last week, President and Brand Strategist Dave Miles and Director of Strategic Partnerships Genevieve Benson had the honor of attending The Innovative 50, hosted by Cecilian Partners in partnership with Hillwood Communities and Perot Jain. This curated experience, set against the scenic backdrop of Circle T Ranch in Texas, brought together 50 forward-thinking leaders across the real estate, technology and development sectors for a day of immersive conversation and collaboration.

More than a conference, The Innovative 50 served as a vivid reminder that innovating in the new home construction industry is no longer optional – it’s essential. And not just innovation in product, but in presence. 

Here are a few moments that stood out to our team members in attendance:

Innovation as a Mindset, Not a Milestone

The event encouraged attendees to reframe innovation as an ongoing practice. True innovation doesn’t always mean big swings – it often starts with daily, intentional action. One key theme discussed throughout the conference was the importance of daily micro goals – small, focused actions that build momentum toward meaningful, long-term transformation.

Data is the Foundation of Agility

The Innovative 50 emphasized the central role of data in driving agile, informed decision-making. Every process, from customer service to sales to operations, should be tied to measurable KPIs and ROI. Mastering data infrastructure is critical for any organization aiming to stay competitive and adaptable.

Experience is the Brand

“I left reminded of a core truth: 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝. From the first interaction to the lasting impression, brand is felt before it’s remembered.” – Genevieve Benson

From custom Air Jordans to expertly designed spaces and insightful panel discussions, the event itself served as a reminder of this. The full journey, from first impression to final interaction, shapes how customers and communities connect with a brand.

Build Cultures that Sustain Innovation

Rather than chasing short-term wins, the most forward-thinking organizations focus on building cultures that reward consistent, values-aligned effort. The concept of internal “innovation labs” was highlighted as a way to create safe environments for experimentation and creative thinking.

Grit and the Power of Reinvention

One of the most memorable moments of the event came during an honest and deeply human conversation with keynote speaker Lance Armstrong. His story, marked by triumph, adversity and reinvention, served as a powerful metaphor for the entrepreneurial journey. His reflections underscored the grit it takes to show up in uncertain times, the resilience to keep going when the path forward is unclear, and the courage required to rebuild after setbacks. It was a reminder that innovation is not only about bold ideas and breakthrough products – it’s also about the quiet, persistent determination behind every founder, builder and brand leader who chooses to keep moving forward.

Choreographing Connection

Attendees were prompted to consider how built environments support everyday rituals. Questions like, “How do buyers come home?” and “How do they leave for work?” sparked meaningful conversations about intentional design and customer experience as central to placemaking strategy.

Dave Miles summed up the event nicely by saying ,“Innovation isn’t just about adopting new tools or trends — it’s about leading with clarity, staying true to your values and creating a brand experience that resonates at every touchpoint.”

As we look to the future of community building, marketing and real estate development, we’re energized by this community of thinkers who are reimagining what’s possible. At Milesbrand, we believe brand is experienced before it’s remembered – and that innovation starts by making space for reflection, intention and evolution.

A heartful thank you to Cecilian Partners, Hillwood Communities and Perot Jain for creating a space that felt as thoughtful as it was inspiring. We’re bringing these ideas back to our clients, our team and our work, with clarity, curiosity and purpose.

Because innovation isn’t a trend – it’s a commitment.