October 1, 2018

---

MILWAUKEE — Foxconn Technology Group (Foxconn) will host an event at Marquette University on Monday, Oct. 1, to celebrate the start of its statewide Smart Cities — Smart Futures competition. Foxconn has committed up to $1 million over the next three years to support its Smart Cities — Smart Futures initiative, which is aimed at generating new ideas from students, faculty and staff at universities, colleges and technical schools across the state as they work to develop smart communities and systems throughout Wisconsin.

The Smart Cities — Smart Futures competition begins Oct. 1. Individuals and teams are encouraged to develop proposals to improve and enhance living and working environments, promote attractive streetscapes, transportation networks and living spaces, and increase sustainability. At the event on Oct. 1, representatives from Marquette and Foxconn will provide an overview of the competition for those who are interested in submitting a proposal.

"Smart city ideas and solutions are integral to realizing our shared vision of building an attractive environment for talent and investment, and transforming Wisconsin into a global high-tech hub," said Dr. Alan Yeung, Director of U.S. Strategic Initiatives, Foxconn. "The Smart Cities — Smart Futures competition aims to inspire exciting ideas that harness technology to enhance quality of life and contribute to Wisconsin's vibrant and sustainable development. The initiative is also part of Foxconn's commitment to nurture and enable talent to tap the immense opportunities for innovation in Wisconn Valley."

The call for initial proposals runs from Oct. 1 to Oct. 31, and up to 100 entries will be chosen to receive a $500 award and move on to the next round of competition, where up to 50 entries will be selected to receive a $1,500 award. In the third round of the competition, the results of which will be announced in spring 2019, up to 16 entries will receive $5,000. Complete timeline and eligibility requirements are available online.

"As a Catholic, Jesuit university, Marquette supports opportunities for our community to advance the greater good through research, innovation and service," said Marquette University President Michael R. Lovell. "We look forward to witnessing the creative solutions that Marquette's students, faculty and staff — along with our peers across the state — put forth to help improve the quality of life in Wisconsin."

Foxconn's Smart Cities — Smart Futures competition event will be held at noon on Oct. 1 in the Alumni Memorial Union, Room 227, located at 1442 W. Wisconsin Ave. Members of the media who are interested in attending should contact Lynn Sheka in the Office of Marketing and Communication at (414) 288-4719 or lynn.sheka@marquette.edu.

Parking is available in the Wells Street Structure, located at 1240 W. Wells St.