public_sector_innovation

Frisco – October 30, 2026 -- Geolava, Vaidio and Sensoneo won the 2026 North Texas Connected Innovation Pitch Competition, selected from 53 applicants representing 38 cities, seven countries and four continents.

The regional initiative is led by the Frisco Economic Development Corporation (FEDC), the McKinney Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the North Texas Innovation Alliance (NTXIA). Nearly 200 city leaders, department teams, investors, corporate partners, research institutions and entrepreneurs attended the live event at Hall Tower in Frisco on Oct. 21.

Cities Set the Challenges and Six Finalists Respond

The format reversed the usual pitch model. Participating cities first defined real operational problems, and companies answered with deployment-ready solutions. Six finalists presented across three challenge areas, and one winner was named in each.

Sharjah – September 10, 2026 -- The Government of Sharjah has opened global applications for the 13th edition of the Sharjah Government Communication Award, expanding the competition to more than 35 prizes and introducing a dedicated artificial intelligence category for the first time.

Applications close September 10, 2026, across government, private sector and individual tracks

Organizations and individuals worldwide have until September 10, 2026 to submit entries. Prizes are split across government and international bodies, private sector organizations, individual honors, smart communication contests, jury awards and partner awards.