Durham Region yesterday announced it has been named one of the top Smart21 Communities of the Year for the fourth year in a row.
Other municipalities/cities named from Canada include Markham (Ontario), Coquitlam (British Columbia), Fredericton (New Brunswick), and Grey County (Ontario).
Each year, the Intelligent Community Forum (ICF)’s Smart21 Communities program recognizes the world’s leading municipalities that are successfully leveraging data and digital assets to develop inclusive and prosperous communities. The program rewards communities using modern technology and innovative thinking to improve economic competitiveness, engage citizens, and increase connectivity to support smarter, healthier, more equitable and sustainable communities.
A statement said through its Intelligent Communities Plan, the region is undergoing digital transformation and leading the way in innovation. Over the last several years, Durham Region has created a connected, innovative community through initiatives including Durham OneNet, Your Durham and the myDurham 311 online portal. Additionally, the Durham Greener Homes and Durham Greener Buildings programs support long-term sustainability goals. Durham also offers a network of digital support for small businesses and entrepreneurs, with collaborative initiatives to connect businesses directly to customers, like the Downtowns of Durham.
The region said Durham’s thriving innovation community is made up of top talent and innovative partners that translate research and development assets into jobs and investment. Durham Region’s top Intelligent Community recognition is thanks to local success stories from all eight of our local municipalities, 1855 Accelerator, Access IO, Brilliant Catalyst, Durham College, the Durham Economic Task Force, the Durham Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Forum, Durham Regional Technology Development Site (Durham RTDS), Durham Region Transit, Ontario Tech University, OPG X-Lab, Spark Centre, Trent University Durham GTA, and others.
“Durham Region is creating connected, innovative communities with an eye on sustainability. We are honoured to be recognized as one of the Smart21 Communities of the Year for the important work we are doing. From introducing more opportunities for broadband connectivity to resident-centric customer service solutions, we are building a better Durham,” said John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer
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