Durham Region has been named 2025 Intelligent Community of the Year by the Intelligent Community Forum (ICF), a recognition of innovation, workforce development and commitment to inclusion.
A region statement said Durham rose to the top against six other outstanding finalists from around the world:
- Assaí, Paraná, Brazil
- Bursa Metropolitan Municipality, Türkiye
- Fairfield/Jefferson County, Iowa, USA
- Hilliard, Ohio, USA
- Kingston, Ontario, Canada
- Las Rozas de Madrid, Spain
It said this honour reflects the incredible collaboration of community partners, including eight local municipalities: Ajax, Brock, Clarington, Oshawa, Pickering, Scugog, Uxbridge and Whitby, along with 1855 Accelerator, Brilliant Catalyst, Durham College, Ontario Tech University, Trent University Durham GTA, and local boards of trade and chambers of commerce.
The ICF evaluates communities on six pillars of its Community Accelerator Strategy: broadband, sustainability, workforce development, innovation, digital inclusion and engagement. Durham Region’s leadership in these areas—through transformative projects and public services—has secured our place among the world’s most forward-thinking communities, the region said.
“I am thrilled that Durham Region has been named Intelligent Community of the Year. Our region is leading the way in economic development, innovation and community excellence. It is an honour to receive international recognition of all the work being done by our local governments, post-secondary institutions and business ecosystem partners as we continue to work to remain a top community of choice to live, work and do business,” said John Henry, Regional Chair.