It is EarthDay 2021. Take a moment to appreciate our earth, what we have been given. And filled with gratitude, we begin our work.

Learning from others is a smart way to work. Consider joining Orange County, Florida on its journey to a more sustainable, resilient city. Communities considering how to use available America Rescue Act funds or possible future infrastructure funding -- can learn from Orange County Florida, which started its planning in early 2020. In fact, more than just learning, communities can participate with Orange County in its Smart & Healthy Building Readiness Cohort, which kicked off with Mayor Deming’s keynote on April 15.

The Smart Cities Council has announced that Orange County, Florida, USA as one of three (3) Readiness Challenge Winners - kick starting the Council's 2021 Readiness Program. The other two are Brisbane, Queensland, Australia and Nashville, Tennessee, USA.

Orange County will lead a Readiness Cohort about ‘Smart & Healthy’ Buildings through the second calendar quarter of 2021 – culminating in a Scoping Charrette (hopefully ‘in-person’) in Orange County with city leaders, participating cities and solution providers.

Did you know that
*Less than one percent of companies ever receive venture capital funding with most failing
*94% of the companies on the Inc. 500 never raised venture funding.
*Only 10% of venture-backed companies had a female founder;
*Only 1% had an African American founder.
Discover how inclusive entrepreneurialism changes this -

Qualify to become a Readiness Cohort Leader through the Readiness Challenge process and your leadership will be recognized on a global stage with assistance and benefits with a value of over $250,000 - all directed at solving a problem you share with other cities. You will also be showcased monthly through the Council's global digital platform, including editorial, case study development and a video interview series to share with others. Help your city, other cities and accelerate your project planning.