8 December 2005

The Digital Challenge contest has been launched by the government in an effort to bring the benefits of technology to the most disadvantaged.

It is a competition aimed at encouraging local authorities to transform the accessibility and efficiency of public services through the use of ICT.

Over £7 million is on offer to the winner of the challenge and each of the ten regional finalists will receive £200,000.

The winner must prove that their e-government innovation is the result of focussed and effective cooperation between the public, private and voluntary sectors of the local community, as well as being able to produce significant results quickly.

"I am very excited by the Digital Challenge - it has the potential to bring real change to people's lives through the innovative use of ICT," said local e-government minister Jim Fitzpatrick.

"It will also act as beacon for service providers, government, and the rest of the ICT community on how they can make a real difference to ordinary people's lives."

© Adfero Ltd

Keep up to date with industry and Nomensa news by signing up to Nomensa newsletters.