Innovation Through Collaboration: Grey County Named a Smart21 Community for Third Year Running
Grey County’s leadership and partnerships earn it a spot on the Smart21 list for 2025, showcasing its success in innovation, digital access, and economic growth.
Grey County’s continued focus on collaboration and innovation has once again placed it on the global stage. For the third year in a row—and the fourth time since 2017—the county has been named one of the world’s Smart21 Communities by the Intelligent Communities Forum (ICF), an international network recognizing regions that use technology to enhance economic and social development.
Announced on March 6 at the Communities in Transition conference in Hamilton, Ontario, this recognition highlights Grey County’s leadership in fostering partnerships that drive progress. The county’s approach brings together municipalities, educational institutions, businesses, and community organizations to create a region that embraces digital inclusion, workforce development, and sustainability.
Warden Andrea Matrosovs credits this achievement to the collective efforts of local organizations and individuals. “We’re thrilled to once again be featured on a global stage for the work our communities are doing to leverage technology to make Grey County a great place to call home,” she said. “It’s exciting to be part of this process and to continue having the opportunity to learn from other communities around the globe.”
At the heart of Grey County’s success is its strategic investment in education and business development. The Sydenham Campus, a hub for entrepreneurship and workforce training, has been a key initiative. In 2024, the campus celebrated the completion of its makerspace and the Henry Bernick Entrepreneurship Centre, offering new opportunities for local businesses and startups. Additionally, partnerships with Georgian College have strengthened skills training and economic growth.
Infrastructure and digital accessibility also play a central role in Grey County’s recognition. The Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology (SWIFT) project is expanding broadband connectivity across the region, addressing a critical need for both residents and businesses. Programs such as the Grey Bruce Local Immigration Partnership, the YMCA, and the Nuclear Innovation Institute further illustrate the county’s commitment to inclusive development. Sustainability efforts, including Going Green in Grey, also contribute to the county’s recognition as an intelligent community.
Grey County’s director of economic development, Savanna Myers, emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving this milestone. “The Intelligent Communities framework has inspired Grey County’s approach to economic development and community building. We appreciate its whole-community approach to ensure we work together and leave no one behind,” Myers said. “Being named to the Top21 is a shared achievement for Grey County, its member municipalities, and all the people, businesses, institutions, and volunteers who are committed to making our region a more prosperous place to call home.”
Grey County joins three other Canadian communities—Durham Region, Kingston, and Langley, British Columbia—on the Smart21 list for 2025. Other recognized regions include municipalities from Australia, Brazil, Iceland, the Netherlands, Spain, Taiwan, Turkey, and the United States.
The ICF evaluates communities based on broadband infrastructure, knowledge workforce, innovation, digital equality, sustainability, and advocacy. Grey County’s ability to align leadership, public and private sector partnerships, and community engagement has been a driving force in its repeated recognition on the global stage.
For more information about the Smart21 Communities and the Intelligent Communities Awards Program, visit www.intelligentcommunity.org.
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In collaboration with the Western Ontario Warden’s Caucus, Grey County is gathering data to assess the tariffs' effects and inform policy responses. Municipal leaders emphasize unity and resilience, urging residents to support local businesses during this period of economic uncertainty. Read more.