DENVER - The City and County of Denver and Tātaki Auckland Unlimited’s GridAKL, Auckland's startup hub fostering technology, innovation and entrepreneurship communities, have signed a City2City agreement. This partnership paves the way for business exchange and collaborative innovation between the two cities, positioning Denver as a prominent technology hub on the global stage.
“Denver businesses are the best in the world and deserve avenues to expand and thrive at home while also leading on the global stage,” said Mayor Mike Johnston. “This new partnership will benefit both cities for years to come by supporting companies as they explore exciting global opportunities, connecting our entrepreneurial ecosystems, fostering innovation, and creating lasting benefits for Denver and Auckland businesses and communities alike."
This City2City agreement was established through Denver Economic Development & Opportunity’s (DEDO) Global Business Development. Under this agreement, eligible businesses from both Denver and Auckland will receive support, including connections to local networks and access to free or discounted workspaces for up to 90 days. Companies looking to scale will benefit from the resources needed to expand successfully, gaining access to co-working spaces, talent, incentives, events, and grants in both markets. These agreements also pave the way for expanded foreign direct investment opportunities.
Tātaki Auckland Unlimited is Auckland’s economic and cultural agency and Chief Executive Nick Hill said this agreement “will help technology businesses explore opportunities in both Auckland and Denver, helping them expand their market reach, and get greater access to local resources.”
Denver has signed City2City agreements with London; Brest, France; the State of New South Wales, Australia; Guadalajara, Mexico and Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Through these partnerships, Denver is strengthening its position as an innovative leader in a global network that is creating supportive environments for companies to find success in foreign markets.
“As a city, we aim to both attract foreign companies to establish their U.S. operations in our vibrant city and create resources and pathways for Denver’s local businesses and economy to thrive, making this City2City collaboration invaluable in positioning Denver as a global city,” said Adeeb Khan, Executive Director of DEDO. “Denver was recently recognized by ADP Research as having the top job market in the nation, out of 55 metro areas. We are proud to be an entrepreneurial and innovation hub for businesses to access assistance, programs, and networking opportunities.”
In addition to the City2City agreement, Denver is home to a stellar and growing community of New Zealand businesses and government representatives that contribute to the local economy. Through this bilateral agreement, Denver hopes to further support and expand this community, while also showcasing Auckland and its region as an exciting market for Denver companies to explore.
________________
About Denver Economic Development & Opportunity
Denver Economic Development & Opportunity is creating an economy that works for everyone. Learn more at denvergov.org/economicdevelopment.
About Tātaki Auckland Unlimited
Tātaki Auckland Unlimited is Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’s economic and cultural agency committed to making the region a desirable place to live, work, visit, invest and do business. Learn more at www.aucklandunlimited.com
