City prepares for technology-driven future with Digital Kitchener 2.0 strategy

Kitchener, ON – Today, the City of Kitchener launched Digital Kitchener 2.0, the 2026-2030 strategy for a people-centred digital city. This future-focused plan will guide Kitchener’s leadership role in the new digital era through goals, focus areas and actions that will further our community’s role as an innovator and leader in the digital and technology spaces.   

“We are living through a period of rapid technological change, with new tools and platforms reshaping our economy and society at lightning speed,” said Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. “Municipalities are on the front lines of change and we take our role seriously to pilot how new ideas can meet real-world challenges. The Digital Kitchener 2.0 strategy is our next leap forward - a plan that positions Kitchener to lead in an era defined by artificial intelligence, data‑driven cities, and rising expectations for digital access.” 

The strategy was informed by a public engagement process that gathered input and feedback from residents and members of the local tech community. Through that process, the City heard the importance of improving digital service usability, accessibility and communication to enhance the community’s experience with the City’s digital platforms, along with their readiness to embrace innovative technologies.  

With that feedback at the forefront, Digital Kitchener 2.0 is focused on making services simpler, more accessible and designed around real resident needs, driven by six key goals: 

“Digital Kitchener 2.0 drives a culture of collaboration where community voices guide digital initiatives, services are efficient and accessible, and innovation unlocks opportunities across our city," said Nicole Amaral, the City of Kitchener’s Innovation Lab Director. “As we developed the strategy, we did it with Kitchener residents in mind. I’m thrilled to be sharing our plan with the community and look forward to showcasing what technology can do for our city as we begin actioning our strategic and future-focused goals.” 

To learn more about Digital Kitchener 2.0 and how its goals will support Kitchener’s digital future, visit Kitchener.ca/DigitalKitchener 

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For more information: 

Corporate Communications and Marketing 
City of Kitchener 
Media@kitchener.ca