The new public square – innovating for city and state

Innovating Governance: Digital Transformation and Human Connection in the New Public Square

The panel explored building smarter, responsive governments. Ms. Clare Barnett, Head of Economic Development for Toronto, defined the “new public square” as direct citizen service, blending technology with essential in-person options for its diverse population.

Ms. Teresa Fiuza, Chief Investment Officer for Banco Português de Fomento, highlighted technology, investment, and purpose. Mr. Jason El Koubi, President and CEO of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, noted government interactions are increasingly digital. Secretary of State Michal Gramatyka from Poland’s Ministry of Digital Affairs declared it fundamentally digital. Poland’s “Emobi” e-citizen app, used by half its 38 million citizens, provides digital identity and government communication, centralizing public life on smartphones.

Toronto leverages digital tools for citizen and business interactions. Ms. Barnett cited “CafeTO,” digitizing outdoor patio applications. Planning applications for business expansions are also online, accelerating project timelines by eliminating physical visits to City Hall.

Mr. El Koubi detailed technology’s substantial role in attracting Virginia investment. Digital sectors like fintech, cyber, AI, and aerospace drive 50% of the state’s economic growth. Virginia utilizes its D.C. proximity and highly educated, tech-savvy workforce. Talent is central to Virginia’s economic strategy, cultivating future-ready skills, including AI fluency. The Virginia Talent Accelerator program offers customized recruitment and training.

Ms. Fiuza explained how technology transformed investment in Portugal. Banco Português de Fomento increased guarantee instruments tenfold using risk modeling and pre-screening, reducing bureaucracy. Portugal also pursues an AI gigafactory in the EU, capitalizing on its talent and clean energy. Ms. Barnett outlined Toronto’s “TradeTO” program, diversifying trade beyond the dominant U.S. market. It educates businesses on Canada’s 15 free trade agreements with 51 countries, offering access to 1.5 billion consumers through webinars, classes, and international events like Web Summit Lisbon 2025. Toronto actively supports companies in global markets, fostering new partnerships.

Despite tech advancements, the panel acknowledged limitations. Ms. Barnett emphasized that face-to-face interaction remains vital, especially for small businesses and entrepreneurs. Toronto’s diverse population requires human connection digital tools cannot fully replicate. Ms. Fiuza and Mr. El Koubi agreed technology amplifies but doesn’t replace human leadership. Secretary of State Gramatyka concluded that trust is technology’s fundamental basis. Digital tools improve services, but cannot automatically create trust between citizens and government.