HARNESSING TECH FOR A MORE PROSPEROUS FUTURE

With billions of dollars in federal and state funding for digital projects on the horizon, Westchester County is positioned to enhance its digital infrastructure, stimulate economic growth and ensure that all residents can fully participate in the digital economy. On Oct. 1, more than 150 attendees — including state and local officials, tech experts, college presidents and national scholars — gathered at Pace University for the Hudson Valley Digital Innovation Conference to discuss how to turn this vision into reality.

Hosted by the Westchester County Association, the Stem Alliance, and Westchester County, the conference focused on the vital intersection of digital access and economic development. With unprecedented federal and state investments soon to be deployed, the event explored how Westchester can leverage this opportunity to build a more equitable, tech-forward future.

Francella Ochillo, keynote speaker and director of the Office of Public Engagement at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), underscored the importance of funding projects that expand digital literacy and accessibility. “Think not only about expanding broadband networks but how people can truly leverage the internet connections they have,” Ochillo said. By ensuring connectivity, affordability and digital literacy, people benefit and economies prosper, he emphasized. “When people are able to connect, they’re more likely to participate in the workforce, become business owners, and expand their businesses. They have more options to participate in a democracy.”

Technology is transforming businesses and government, enabling them to evolve into smart, data-driven organizations. Emerging use cases in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital access were highlighted as key drivers of efficiency and equity, with a focus on how these advancements can address public needs.

Three panels addressed the role of cutting-edge technology in economic development, focusing on digital infrastructure; connectivity in government, business, and smart cities; and cybersecurity awareness and prevention.  The event was a valuable platform to study the nexus between digital access and economic development and to explore how Westchester can participate in the billions of dollars of federal and state funding about to be deployed in this field, said Michael N. Romita, president and CEO, Westchester County Association, which co-sponsored the event with the Stem Alliance and Westchester County.

“This conference was about creating opportunities,” explained Romita. “By convening thought leaders in business, education, government, and our communities, we foster innovation, build partnerships, and ensure Westchester is prepared to thrive in the digital economy.”