NEWS

4TH OECD ROUNDTABLE ON SMART CITIES AND INCLUSIVE GROWTH

On 17 September 2024, the OECD Centre for Entrepreneurship, SMEs, Regions and Cities (CFE)
and the German Development Co-operation Agency (GIZ) will conduct the 4th OECD Roundtable on Smart Cities and Inclusive Growth, in Paris. This in-person event will address how cities of all sizes can harness digital technologies to drive growth, improve well-being, and achieve sustainable urban development.

The roundtable will bring together key stakeholders – from cities, national governments, the private sector, civil society, academia, and international organizations – to understand the current state and drivers of digitalization in cities, draw insights from successful cases of digital transformation, examine the role of AI in achieving sustainable urban development, and explore policy avenues for digital transition in cities.

17 September 2024, from 09:00 am to 5:30 pm (CEST)

Register here

Download the agenda here

Cities worldwide are leveraging the power of artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and big data to revolutionize urban living. AI, in particular, is paving new paths for managing complex urban systems, boosting productivity, and fostering societal progress. These advancements are not only enhancing the quality of life in cities but are also contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals.

Despite the potential benefits, not all cities are equally equipped to invest in and benefit from digitalization. Medium and small-sized cities face significant hurdles such as funding constraints, inadequate digital infrastructure, gaps in digital literacy and skills, and regulatory challenges. Addressing these obstacles is crucial to ensure that cities of all sizes can deliver better public services, improve living standards, tackle climate change, foster a robust digital economy, and enhance urban governance.

Credit: OECD

The CFE provides comparative statistics, analysis, and capacity-building support to local and national actors. By working together, these actors can unleash the potential of entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), promote inclusive and sustainable regional development, boost local job creation, and support sound tourism policies.

The event will foster collaboration and share insights to help cities of all sizes embrace digitalization, and create more inclusive and sustainable urban areas. For more information visit: https://www.oecd.org/en/events/2024/09/4th-oecd-roundtable-of-smart-cities-and-inclusive-growth.html