SCCANZ launches Smart Cities Readiness Challenge

The Smart Cities Council Australia New Zealand (SCCANZ) has officially launched the Smart Cities Readiness Challenge across the two markets.

The new challenge will reward up to 15 communities in the two markets with grants to support their smart city initiatives — up from the previously planned 10–12.

Each grant recipient will receive a place at a two-day Smart Cities Readiness Incubator in Sydney, Perth or New Zealand, as well as membership in the Smart Cities Leadership Circle and free mentoring and support from partner organisations.

During the seminars, delegates will join industry leaders to participate in presentations, hands-on masterclasses and mobile workshops with government leaders, private sector and academic experts and other key stakeholders.

The program will be available to all levels of government for cities, states, regions and towns in Australia and New Zealand. Winners will be chosen by a selection committee consisting of Smart Cities Council staff, partners and advisory board members.

This marks the first time the Smart Cities Council has held a Readiness Challenge outside of North America.

Applications for the challenge can be requested here. Applications will be open until 28 May, and the incubator programs will be held in July and August.

Image credit: ©iStockphoto.com/nadla

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