This episode features Frans Jorna, Chief Innovation and Information Officer at the City of Apeldoorn, Netherlands, and board member of the Dutch Metropolitan Innovations Ecosystem. He shares insights into Apeldoorn’s approach to urban innovation, digital transformation, and the collaborative efforts of mid-sized Dutch cities to scale sustainable solutions. The discussion explores the Dutch Metropolitan Innovations Ecosystem, a partnership between cities, companies, and national ministries aimed at creating a unified data infrastructure and standardised urban solutions. Frans highlights key projects, such as digital twins for urban planning, the transition to shared mobility, and the development of an open urban data platform. The conversation also delves into broader challenges, including the role of AI, the impact of digitalisation on energy consumption, and the need for cities to innovate while managing security risks and fostering social change. Finally, Frans emphasises the importance of citizen-centric approaches, ensuring that individuals benefit from their own data while driving forward smarter, more sustainable urban environments. Overview of the episode: [00:02:24] Teaser Question: “If you had to describe Apeldoorn’s innovation strategy with three emojis, which would they be?” [00:04:40] Our guest’s background: Frans Jorna discusses his education in political science and public administration, his career path, and how he became CIO of Apeldoorn. [00:08:25] Dutch Metropolitan Innovations Ecosystem: Origins, goals, and how cities, companies, and ministries collaborate to scale innovation. [00:12:03] Challenges in large-scale collaboration: Overcoming bureaucracy, ensuring scalability, and aligning different stakeholders. [00:14:01] Concrete projects and examples: Digital twins, mobility hubs, and incentivising bike use in Dutch cities. [00:16:03] Data platform: Structure, functionality, and challenges in creating a unified data-sharing system. [00:19:59] Scaling innovation: How to ensure solutions remain adaptable across different urban contexts. [00:21:16] AI and urban development: Benefits, risks, and concerns about energy consumption. [00:24:07] Apeldoorn’s biggest challenge: Urbanisation and infrastructure overhaul, climate adaptation, and the energy transition. [00:26:48] Bottlenecks and missing tools: Energy infrastructure limitations and the need for new business models. [00:29:43] Open floor: The role of social innovation, change management, and the importance of security in smart cities. [00:33:25] Podcast Segment – “Roll with the Punches”: A rapid-fire Q&A covering topics like shared mobility, AI, and digital twins. [00:35:52] Ending Question: “To you, what is a Smart City?” Like our show? Remember to subscribe and rate it! Want to join us for an episode? Fill out the form on our Podcast Page. And for more insights, visit our BABLE Smart Cities Knowledge Hub
