Are You Certifiable?

In the USA, asking that question is not a quick way to make friends. It suggests you’re concerned about the mental stability of the person you’re asking. But for the Intelligent Community Forum, it is the start of a serious inquiry.

In 2024, we began certifying cities, counties and regions as Intelligent Communities, which offers them a unique distinction with a very specific meaning.  This autumn, we will announce the Intelligent Community Certification of three new communities in Europe. 

It means that they have high-quality connectivity, effective workforce development and a well-structured business innovation ecosystem. It certifies that they have meaningful community engagement, digital inclusion and sustainability programs in place. This matrix of support enables them to grow innovative businesses, meet their talent needs and provide inclusive prosperity and a high quality of life to the people who that place their home. 

That's Intelligent!

They are certifiable because ICF has developed an analytical model of community intelligence and proved its value across more than 200 communities on five continents. Our Certification program turns it into a mark of distinction that supports investment attraction, business retention and community pride.

You can learn about today’s Certified Intelligent Communities on our website. If you check back in the autumn, you will find three more added to the list.

Being certifiable may not be such a bad thing after all.

Photo by Armin Lotfi on Unsplash
Robert Bell
Robert Bell is co-founder of the Intelligent Community Forum, where he heads its research, analysis and content development activities.
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