The new program follows on a 2017 initiative designed to cut costs and streamline government operations.

The new agency will examine forward-looking policies that include broadband expansion and state workforce development.

Laila Alequresh, a former official in Los Angeles and Philadelphia, will work on ways to improve the city through technology and new ideas, while also serving as a consultant to other city leaders.

The companies will pair with 22 local governments to develop innovative government solutions over the next 16 weeks.

Washington D.C. CISO Suneel Cherukuri says "smart cities" and "internet of things" programs are great, but that they must be balanced with security.

In a video interview, Baltimore Mayor Catherine Pugh says the key to successful, citywide innovation is civic engagement.

The city discovered in a recent survey that small business owners are aware of cyber threats but are largely unequipped to address them.

Pilot projects across the city will use new funding to address a wide range of challenges, from pollution to public safety.

The nonprofit says it's on track to hit 100 communities within the next five years.