Media Release
Winnipeg named one of world's Top 7 intelligent communities for 2018
MEDIA RELEASE
February 8, 2018
Winnipeg, MB – For the third time in five years, Winnipeg has been recognized by the International Community Forum (ICF) as one of the world’s leading intelligent communities. This international challenge recognizes the city’s global leadership in technology deployment and effective data usage, digital innovation and advocacy, and demonstrating a commitment to using data to improve the lives of its citizens.
This is Winnipeg’s third commendation from the ICF as a Top 7 Intelligent Community, having also received this designation in 2017 and 2014. Winnipeg is one of only two Canadian cities recognized by the ICF for 2018, alongside cities in Taiwan, Finland and Australia.
“We are extremely pleased that Winnipeg has been recognized once again as one of the most intelligent communities in the world,” said Dayna Spiring, president and CEO of Economic Development Winnipeg Inc. “Our city’s commitment to using data in a way that helps our economic and social growth is a competitive advantage that we do not talk about enough. This commendation proves that the world is taking notice of Winnipeg as a progressive technology hub, and that we have the infrastructure and intelligence to become a model for the future.”
The awards program salutes the accomplishments of communities in developing inclusive prosperity built on a foundation of information and communications technology. Each year, a theme is chosen that relates to this overall objective. This year’s theme, Humanizing Data, asked applicants to consider the ways individuals and communities use and incorporate data to improve their health and well-being. Indicators such as data accessibility, knowledgeable workforce and an innovation-driven economy were some of the topics the ICF considered when making its selection.
One of the Top 7 Intelligent Communities will be recognized by the ICF as the Intelligent Community of the Year for 2018 at the ICF Global Summit in June.
Background information from the ICF website is accessible here: http://www.intelligentcommunity.org/top7
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About Economic Development Winnipeg Inc.
Economic Development Winnipeg Inc. (EDW) is the lead economic development agency for Winnipeg. EDW facilitates investment promotion and attraction, capacity building, tourism development and the management of market data. By utilizing competitive intelligence and by fostering relationships with industry leaders, government officials and community stakeholders, EDW evaluates potential opportunities and innovation drivers to develop key industries and define opportunities for future economic growth. EDW also supports targeted sector, community and social development, and promotes Winnipeg’s diverse economy and high quality of life.
For more information, please contact:
Matt Schaubroeck
Specialist, Corporate Communications
Economic Development Winnipeg Inc.
Phone: 204.954.1961
Cell: 204.791.3323
Email:
matt@edwinnipeg.com
