Fairfield Heads to the World Stage: Local Leaders to Represent Iowa at the 2025 ICF Global Summit
Fairfield, Iowa is about to shine on an international stage.
This December, a distinguished group of Fairfield and Jefferson County leaders will join innovators, policymakers, and global change-makers at the Intelligent Community Forum (ICF) Global Summit 2025, held December 2–4. The Summit—hosted this year in Binh Duong, Vietnam—brings together top-performing cities and regions from around the world to learn, collaborate, and envision the future of community development in the digital age.
For Fairfield, this is more than a conference. It is a transformational opportunity to connect our rural Midwest community with world-leading experts on smart cities, broadband advancement, workforce development, sustainability, innovation ecosystems, and economic resilience.
To explore the event and its global impact, visit: https://www.intelligentcommunity.org/icf_global_summit_2025
A Global Gathering Focused on the Future
The ICF Global Summit is internationally recognized for showcasing cities that excel in integrating technology, community engagement, sustainability, and economic innovation. Attendees include national leaders, CEOs, global strategists, urban planners, economic development directors, and representatives from some of the world’s most forward-thinking communities.
Fairfield’s growing involvement with ICF positions our city alongside regions like Toronto, Taipei, Curitiba, Bursa, Las Rozas de Madrid, and other internationally celebrated “Intelligent Communities.”
Participating in this event gives Fairfield the chance to bring home:
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Proven strategies from cities leading in broadband expansion, smart agriculture, digital transformation, and sustainability
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Opportunities for global partnerships and shared projects
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Tools to support local entrepreneurs, strengthen our workforce, and elevate regional collaboration
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International visibility as Fairfield advances in the Intelligent Community designation process
The momentum is real—and our local delegates are ready to represent us well.
Meet the Fairfield Delegates Attending the 2025 ICF Global Summit
Fairfield’s delegation is composed of community builders, business leaders, innovators, and advocates who each bring unique strengths to the table. Their inclusion places Fairfield in the company of some of the world’s most promising regions for innovation and resilience.
You can learn more about the full delegation—including global attendees—by viewing the official attendee document: HERE
Bob Ferguson — Social Entrepreneur & Community Development Leader
A driving force behind Fairfield’s ICF progress, Ferguson has led regional food system collaboration, founded Traction Thursdays for local entrepreneurs, and helped shape statewide strategy on food systems and sustainability. His leadership is central to Fairfield’s Intelligent Community efforts.
Margaret Dwyer — Environmental & Resilience Advocate
Dwyer brings decades of civic leadership, nonprofit involvement, and a deep commitment to resilience planning, sustainability, and community wellness. She serves on multiple boards and initiatives dedicated to improving quality of life and long-term planning in Fairfield.
Seth Miller — President of Advocacy & Administration, Cambridge Investment Research
Miller is a nationally respected leader in financial services governance, regulatory policy, and risk management. His strategic expertise strengthens Fairfield’s position in the global conversation on innovation, talent development, and the future of work.
Nahom Abegaze — Director of Operational Excellence, MIU
Abegaze is a dynamic leader with extensive experience in organizational strategy, project management, operations, DEI initiatives, and executive coaching. His global background and cross-industry expertise bring a rich perspective to Fairfield’s delegation.
These four will join representatives from Canada, Taiwan, Brazil, Türkiye, Spain, the Netherlands, and other U.S. communities—creating powerful opportunities for collaboration and idea exchange.
Why This Matters for Fairfield
This moment signals Fairfield’s emerging role as a model for rural innovation.
While major urban centers often dominate conversations about smart cities and digital transformation, ICF’s mission emphasizes that any community—large or small, rural or urban—can build a dynamic, sustainable, and connected future.
Fairfield’s participation means:
1. Global Expertise Comes Home
Delegates will bring back insights from leaders who have transformed their regions with advanced broadband, tech-driven economic development, resilient infrastructure, and community-centered planning.
2. Fairfield’s Voice Is Heard Internationally
Our representatives will share Fairfield’s own successes—entrepreneurship culture, sustainability efforts, strong nonprofit sector, and cross-sector collaboration—positioning us as a community to watch.
3. New Partnerships Become Possible
Connections with global cities and innovation networks can open doors to collaborative projects, educational opportunities, investment, and long-term relationships that could benefit Fairfield for years to come.
4. Rural Communities Gain a Champion
Fairfield’s presence reinforces the message that rural communities are not only relevant—but essential—in shaping the future of intelligent, equitable development.
Looking Ahead: A Milestone for Fairfield’s Intelligent Community Journey
Since entering the ICF awards cycle, Fairfield has steadily advanced in global recognition for our community-driven approach to innovation and resilience. The 2025 Summit represents another step in a long-term vision for strengthening Fairfield’s economic vibrancy, connectivity, and quality of life.
With this year’s delegation, our region is not simply participating—we are contributing.
Fairfield is stepping into the conversation with confidence, collaboration, and a shared vision for what a small Midwestern community can accomplish when leaders unite around progress and possibility.
A Moment of Pride for Fairfield
As these local leaders travel to join an international network of innovators, Fairfield takes its place among communities shaping the future of intelligent, inclusive development.
Their participation represents the dedication, talent, and forward-thinking spirit that define our town—and showcases that even small rural communities can lead on the global stage.
The future is bright, and Fairfield is ready to rise.
