In this edition of the Intelligence Test podcast, ICF co-founder Robert Bell has a conversation with Julian Su, CEO, Cardinalrain, Grace Chao, Founder, Hearing Action Inc. and David Liu, CFO, Hoye Inc.

Local governments everywhere are racing to deploy AI in hope of improving services, communicating better and saving money. At ICF, we have seen the AI projects of Intelligent Communities grow more impressive every year. But there’s an untold story.  As a recent article put it, “an AI arms race has begun between the state and citizens, and it is not clear that the state will win.”

In the UK, local councils are responding to public frustration by developing tools that speed up housing approvals. But they are also being overwhelmed by AI-generated objections to proposed housing developments. For the low-low price of £45, the Objector AI platform will scan planning documents, draw up legal grounds for opposition and even write a speech to be read aloud at a public meeting.

A Global Reference in Smart City and Intelligent Community Development

I’ve been to Columbus and Central Ohio several times, and I am always impressed by the region’s dynamic blend of innovation, culture, and Midwest charm. It offers visitors an inviting destination where vibrant and historic neighborhoods, scenic parks, acclaimed museums, and a thriving restaurant scene come together. Whether they wander the riverfront, enjoy the energy of the Short North Arts District, experience the wonders of the Columbus Zoo, or explore the nearby towns, visitors will be impressed by the region’s rich history and welcoming spirit. According to my Ohio friends, they tell me that “in Columbus, the soul of the city lives in its makers, dreamers, and communities that welcome everyone in.”

Also available on Apple Podcasts & YouTube

In this edition of The INTELLIGENT Community Podcast, Soul of the City ICF Co-Founder Lou Zacharilla speaks with a panel featuring Vera Bergengruen, National Security Reporter, The Wall Street Journal. 

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. 

The ICF VIP Delegation at the Top7 Brightlands-Limburg Conference and Extended Site Visit to Eindhoven included 15 participants and leaders representing the USA, Canada, Taiwan, Spain, and the Netherlands.

Also available on Apple Podcasts & YouTube

In this edition of The INTELLIGENT Community Podcast, Soul of the City ICF Co-Founder Lou Zacharilla speaks about the "AMEN" stages of the ICF program.

Also available on Apple Podcasts & YouTube

In this edition of The INTELLIGENT Community Podcast, Soul of the City ICF Co-Founder Lou Zacharilla speaks with Kris Baxter, Communication and Marketing Director, Tempe, AZ.

Seven communities from seven nations named as
finalists for the 2026 Intelligent Community of the Year Award

(New York City – June 16, 2026) – The Intelligent Community Forum announced today the Full Certification of Yunlin County, a major supplier of agricultural and fisheries products to Taiwan. The announcement took place at “Circular Living,” the 2026 Top7 Intelligent Communities conference taking
place in the province of Limburg, Netherlands.

Yunlin County had previously qualified for Provisional Certification based on self-reported data. A two-day, onsite audit by an ICF representative validated this information and provided fresh insights into how the county works to to automate production, retain young talent, promote the creation of new companies and prevent the decline that affects so many agricultural regions around the world.