Smart communities are communities with a vision that involves a new and innovative use of information and communication technologies within their regions and institutions. They make the most of the opportunities that new technologies offer to promote business growth and improve health services, education and training. 

In trying to meet the population�s needs, smart communities worldwide are discovering innovative ways of using information and communications technologies to enhance economic, social and cultural development. The communities and countries that learn to draw on these new technologies� potential will create jobs, promote economic growth and provide a better quality of life for their people. 

The Smart Communities Program was launched in 1999, as part of the Connecting Canadians program. Its goal is to make Canada the most connected country in the world.