The Center for the Globalization and Strategy of the IESE Cities in Motion Business School named Medellin the fourth “Smartest” city in Latin America and within the 100 most intelligent in the world. Of the cities in Latin America, Medellin placed behind only Buenos Aires (Argentina), Santiago de Chile (Chile) and Mexico City (Mexico). The fifth is Montevideo (Uruguay).
“This Is a recognition that shows that we´re moving in the right direction when it comes to competitiveness, innovation, science and technology” said Federico Gutierrez, Mayor of Medellin.
This study analyzed 79 indicators that cover up to 10 dimensions of every day life. The data is given by organizations such as UNESCO, World Bank and Euromonitor. These key components are: human capital, social cohesion, economy, public administration, government, environment, mobility and transportation, urban planification, international projection and technology.
Worldwide, Medellin was on in 96 slot of 180 cities in 80 countries. The ranking places Medellin among a group of cities with high potential that are rapidly evolving and adapting to the future.
The mayor’s office also touted the city’s focus upon making Medellin more appealing for investment, including the recruitment of foreign companies and investment. The city is also one of the most connected in Latin America, with 197 zones with free Wi-Fi connection 24/7, according to data provided by the mayor’s office.
