The Digital City Memphis Discussion Panel

On October 19, 2021, Start Co. joined the Downtown Memphis Commission and the Greater Memphis Chamber to share details about the Digital City and how local leaders will harness its capabilities to drive positive social change and economic growth. This conversation took place at the Smart Cities Connect Conference and Expo in Washington, D.C. where hundreds of city leaders, community innovators, and technology experts gathered to discuss how the adoption and integration of smart technology solutions can lead to the betterment of cities, communities, and their citizens. Speakers:

• Andre Fowlkes - President of Start Co.

• Ted Townsend - Chief Economic Development Officer of the Greater Memphis Chamber

• Paul Young - President & CEO of the Downtown Memphis Commission

Moderator:

• Rachel Reilly - Founder of Aces & Archers

Recap

Speakers began the discussion by providing context on the state of economic development, innovation, and entrepreneurship in Memphis from a regional, city-wide, and neighborhood perspective.

- Paul Young, Downtown Memphis Commission

Andre Fowlkes provided an overview of the Digital City. Fowlkes then spoke to how the Digital City’s capabilities and attributions (i.e. the Consortium and the Smart Entrepreneurship Engine) will have a direct impact within its Downtown Memphis footprint, and will deliver benefits that will radiate throughout the city and region.

- Andre Fowlkes, Start Co.

Paul Young and Ted Townsend provided insights on the opportunity to leverage the Digital City to strengthen Downtown Memphis and improve both economic growth throughout the Memphis region. Fowlkes then described ways in which applications of the Digital City have the potential to do so.

- Ted Townsend, Greater Memphis Chamber

The discussion closed with all panelists speaking to the importance of establishing local alignment and partnerships that can sustain Smart Cities solutions, like the Digital City, over the long-term and utilize its capabilities to drive positive social and economic outcomes. View the recording of the panel discussion and coverage from Government Technology for more information.