​​What is Smart Charlotte?

We’re building a Smart Charlotte! Working with community partners, we’re improving city services, infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for our residents. These enhancements will enable innovation, digital access and inclusion, connectivity, and economic mobility in our community.  Smart Charlotte…empowered by technology.

​Access Charlotte Public Wi-Fi

The digital divide in the City of Charlotte has intensified, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, the increasing need for remote work and virtual learning has grown significantly.

The city recognizes this urgency and is accelerating its commitment for public Wi-Fi on transit, and in neighborhoods and public spaces throughout Charlotte. In addition to meeting an immediate need for students and families, public Wi-Fi will boost economic mobility for Charlotte residents.

The initiative also will support economic development efforts in the Corridors of Opportunity.

In addition to public Wi-Fi, the City is investing in partnerships that will increase digital access and digital literacy throughout Charlotte:

• Learning Labs – this partnership with United Way will provide computers and technology equipment to community centers and remote learning sites throughout Charlotte, with an emphasis on the Corridors of Opportunity and other areas of need.

• Digital Navigators – this partnership with Digital Charlotte will provide one-to-one dedicated technical support via phone and/or web-conferencing service to help residents learn basic digital skills, find affordable computing devices, and get connected to affordable home internet.

​Charlotte Public Wi-Fi Locations

​Microsoft Digital Alliance

The City of Charlotte has a three-year digital alliance and Smart Cities initiative with Microsoft.

The goal of this effort is to create a regional center of excellence in innovation and workforce development, with a sustained commitment to regional Smart Cities startups and innovators.

The public-private initiative aims to increase digital skills along the full continuum of the educational pipeline. Throughout the program, Microsoft will support the City of Charlotte through various volunteer initiatives and will provide hands-on technology training at events throughout the city.

The City of Charlotte and Microsoft have identified five initial focus areas that will leverage technology and education to benefit the city’s residents, businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs:

​North End Smart District

North End Smart District (NESD) is a future hotspot for development, attracting new economic activities, particularly centered on technology and innovation sectors. In 2011, NESD was designated as the Applied Innovation Corridor. Funding from Community Investment Plan bonds was earmarked for collaborative, economic development investments to improve the community. NESD focuses on collaborations with the eight neighborhoods in the district.

Smart Cities optimize infrastructure and maximize services and opportunities that enhance the quality of life for residents. Government, companies, universities and community partners collaborate to use innovation and data. This data increases economic opportunities, connectedness, efficiency and grows the potential of residents. Charlotte’s smart city vision includes creating a district that acts as a hub for the city’s innovation engine. The NESD’s innovative approach to Smart Cities is one that ensures residents have a seat at the table making decisions for their community.