Abstract: By scientifically constructing an index system for urban innovation potential and using relevant data from the cities in the Yangtze River middle reaches urban agglomeration from 2001 to 2020, this study employed GIS visualization analysis, global spatial autocorrelation models, and standard deviation ellipse analysis to illustrate the spatial distribution characteristics of urban innovation potential in this region. Non-parametric kernel density estimation and Markov chain transition matrices were used to reveal its dynamic evolution trend, and σ-convergence and β-convergence analyses were conducted based on the coefficient of variation method to explain its spatial convergence law. This study found that the spatial distribution of urban innovation potential in the Yangtze River middle reaches urban agglomeration had directional, spatial correlation, and spatial diffusion characteristics. In the earlier stage, the innovation potential of eastern cities was weaker than that of western cities, while in the later stage, the western cities were slightly stronger than the eastern ones. Among the three provincial capital cities, Wuhan and Changsha had a significant advantage in innovation potential. In terms of dynamic evolution, the overall trend of urban innovation potential showed an integration and balance. Spatial convergence analysis showed that the convergence characteristics and catch-up effects of innovation potential among cities in the region were significant. Based on the research conclusions, the Yangtze River middle reaches urban agglomeration should stimulate and utilize the "growth pole" effect of innovation, fully leverage the innovation hub and the radiation role of Wuhan, Changsha, and Nanchang, jointly build cross-regional innovation resource sharing and collaborative innovation platforms, comprehensively enhance the urban scientific and technological innovation capabilities and technology transformation abilities, and achieve effective transformation of innovation potential into innovation capabilities and levels.