How do we encourage innovation that allows for diversity without driving up the costs that reduce diversity?

Cost of participation is a key factor in examining technology policy but one that we are more used to considering. If an innovation such as the sliding rigger in rowing is not only costly but requires all crews to purchase fleets of new equipment, only those with sufficient funds will be able to compete. In order to encourage participation and growth, cost of access should not be a deterrent. New innovation can, however, decrease cost as new materials and manufacturing processes make equipment that is more durable and less costly. Thus, in order to increase access to the sport, technological innovation that reduces cost should be considered while examining those innovations that make the sport prohibitively costly.