INTRODUCTION & BACKGROUND TO

Draft Zero

In 2012, we discussed a novel form of transatlantic collaboration to meet the needs of a changing world. The outcome was a roadmap which was visionary at the time: global cities collaborating to provide more opportunities for all. Some of the thoughts included:

● International collaboration is complicated. Let’s focus on mutual benefits and highlight opportunities and positive developments

● Talk is cheap, progress is hard. Still, let’s try to work toward concrete outcomes.

● Elite discussions are good, but not enough. Let’s open the speaker lounge, the VIP section, and the speaker dinner for everyone.

● Connect around topics of the future. Entrepreneurship combined with digital transformation and the right policies will become new drivers for progress.

● Private to support public – start with cities. Where feasible, let private institutions support public collaboration, especially where progress benefits all: in and with cities. It is time to take this roadmap a step further. Join us.