Bas Boorsma, a distinguished figure in urban innovation and digitalization, has dedicated over 23 years to advancing the ‘smart city’ concept. As the founder and partner of Urban Innovators Global and chairman of Urban Futures Spa, he has been instrumental in shaping urban futures. His tenure as Chief Digital Officer for the City of Rotterdam from 2021 to 2023 highlights his commitment to integrating digital solutions in urban environments.

In academia, Bas serves as a Professor of Practice at the Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University, a role he has held since 2019. His influence extends to the Smart City Association Italy, where he contributes as a board member. His career at Cisco, spanning 11 years, was marked by leadership in urban innovation and smart city initiatives, emphasizing the future of work and start-up engagement.

Bas is also a prolific author, known for “A New Digital Deal,” which has been acclaimed globally and translated into multiple languages. His insights into digital transformation and entrepreneurial opportunities are further explored in his work, “Welcome to the CitiVerse!” His contributions continue to inspire and guide the next wave of urban digital transformation.