ZERO1 was launched in 2000 by high-tech marketing pioneer Andy Cunningham, who had been instrumental in the success of companies such as Apple, Cisco, and Hewlett-Packard.  Andy launched the organization at the Stanford Research Institute conference after incubating the idea as a Henry Crown Fellow at the Aspen Institute.

Over the years, ZERO1 has played a critical in fostering dialogue and collaboration between artists, technologists, and cultural institutions to advance creative experimentation and transdisciplinary projects.  The ZERO1 Biennial, one of North America's most prominent digital art gatherings, stands as a testament to this influence. Other pioneering projects include the Fellowship/x program, which developed lines of artistic research and cultural production in response to innovation challenges through cross-sector partnership with partner organizations such as Google, Adobe, Montalvo Arts Center; and the American Arts Incubator, an international creative exchange program.

In 2022, ZERO1 and Leonardo entered a strategic partnership, and in 2024, ZERO1 became a part of Leonardo, building on the successful strategic partnership established two years earlier.  Leonardo's integration of ZERO1 reflects both organizations' shared commitment to applying creativity to the complex challenges we face today. Leonardo and ZERO1's partnership will further transdisciplinary thought and practice through residencies, fellowships, labs, and publishing to contribute to the vibrant creative community worldwide.

For more information, visit the ZERO1 website.