ICF offers the world’s only certification program for Intelligent Communities. It identifies cities, counties and regions that are investment-ready and prepared to prosper economically, socially and culturally amid the challenges and opportunities of the digital age. It provides objective, third-party validation of the community’s potential and progress, based on internationally recognized standards.

Why Certify?

Economic development value. Meeting the Certification standard provides objective validation that a community has high-quality connectivity, effective workforce development, a business innovation system and meaningful community engagement, digital inclusion and sustainability programs in place. These qualities combine to support the growth of innovative businesses, meet their talent needs and provide a high quality of life.

Community validation. The work of community building can be slow and difficult, leaving innovators to feel they are working in a vacuum. Certification offers validation that local projects and programs rise to a global standard regardless of the municipality’s location, wealth or resources.

Continuous improvement. As a Certified Intelligent Community, your municipality may gain free access to ICF programs including best practice reports, online training and a network of like-minded communities providing peer learning and engagement.

What does Certification deliver?

Certification delivers benefits including a Certified Intelligent Community logo and public listing, confidential reporting on results, press releases and promotion and ongoing participation in ICF programs. See the Certification process page for details.

Learn more about the Certification process →

Review the Certification standards →

View the list of Certified Intelligent Communities →

Apply for Certification →