Unlocking Innovation: Top Innovation Cloud Alternatives for Your Business
Innovation Cloud has been a long-standing player in the innovation management software space, offering solutions from their free Innovation Cloud Startup for small teams to the robust Innovation Cloud Enterprise for end-to-end innovation processes. Founded in 2007 and with an ISO 27001 certification, they've helped companies in over 40 countries tap into their creative potential. However, as business needs evolve and the software landscape expands, many organizations are seeking an Innovation Cloud alternative that might better fit their specific requirements, budget, or feature preferences. Whether you're a startup looking for simpler tools or an enterprise seeking specialized functionalities, there are numerous powerful platforms available.
Top Innovation Cloud Alternatives
When searching for an ideal innovation management solution, it's crucial to consider various factors like platform compatibility, pricing models, and specific features. Here's a curated list of excellent alternatives to Innovation Cloud, each bringing unique strengths to the table.

Nectir
Nectir stands out as an intuitive idea platform designed to collect ideas, set challenges, and execute great thinking. As a commercial solution available on Web and Chrome OS, it offers features like Gamification, which can significantly boost engagement and participation in your innovation initiatives, making it a compelling Innovation Cloud alternative for teams focused on dynamic ideation.

Ideakeep
Ideakeep is a versatile tool that helps teams collect and rank their best ideas. Available as a freemium solution across Mac, Windows, Linux, and Slack, its key feature is Slack integration, streamlining the idea submission process directly within your communication channels. This makes Ideakeep a strong Innovation Cloud alternative for teams deeply embedded in the Slack ecosystem.

Wridea
Wridea offers a free, web-based online mind tool designed to help you keep your mind organized and all your ideas at hand. Its core features include Brainstorming and Online collaboration, making it an excellent, accessible Innovation Cloud alternative for individuals and small teams looking for a straightforward way to manage and share ideas without significant investment.

Ideator
Ideator is a free, web-based platform aimed at democratizing business incubation. With features like Education and Networking, it's designed to help people become wildly successful. For those seeking an Innovation Cloud alternative with a strong community and learning focus, Ideator provides a valuable platform for developing and connecting with business ideas.

Universe by ideas4all Innovation
Universe by ideas4all Innovation is a commercial innovation management software available as Web-based Software as a Service (SaaS). It focuses on detecting, co-creating, evaluating, and promoting ideas from collaborators to achieve innovation goals, with features like CrowdSourced innovation. This makes it a robust Innovation Cloud alternative for enterprises looking for a comprehensive, managed solution.

MindSumo
MindSumo is a free platform available on Web, Android, and iPhone that connects college students with Fortune 500 companies for open innovation challenges. Its CrowdSourced feature allows companies to tap into external talent for problem-solving, offering a unique Innovation Cloud alternative for organizations interested in leveraging a wider, diverse pool of ideas.

IdeaScale
IdeaScale focuses on Community-Driven Innovation, helping transform products, processes, markets, and organizations. Available for free on iPhone and iPad, its CrowdSourced and Customer Feedback features make it an excellent Innovation Cloud alternative for businesses looking to involve their community and customers directly in the innovation process.

Sideways 6
Sideways 6 is a commercial platform that excels at involving employees in innovation, particularly by crowdsourcing ideas via Yammer. It's available across multiple platforms including Windows, Web, Android, iPhone, and Chrome OS, offering Real time collaboration. As a comprehensive Innovation Cloud alternative, Sideways 6 is ideal for large organizations seeking to manage and analyze employee-generated ideas effectively.

Napkin - Startup idea app for entrepreneurs
Napkin is a commercial iPhone app designed for entrepreneurs to create and organize startup ideas, take notes, and share with stakeholders. With its Notetaking features and automatic device syncing, it serves as a focused Innovation Cloud alternative for individuals and small entrepreneurial teams prioritizing mobile idea capture and organization.

Crowdicity
Crowdicity is a commercial, web-based idea management software tailored for smart organizations. It simplifies harnessing ideas and insights from employees, partners, and customers, featuring robust Idea management and Real time collaboration. For businesses seeking an intuitive and powerful Innovation Cloud alternative to effectively manage large-scale crowdsourcing initiatives, Crowdicity is a top contender.
The innovation management software market is rich with diverse options, each offering unique strengths. While Innovation Cloud has established its presence, exploring these alternatives can help you pinpoint the perfect solution that aligns with your organization's specific needs, budget, and strategic goals for fostering creativity and driving growth. Take the time to evaluate their features, platforms, and pricing to make an informed decision and find the best fit for your innovation journey.