How do we address challenges like road closures due to accidents or flooding? Who re-routes the ambulance when the direct route is closed? How do we track first responders in buildings? These are questions that municipalities across the country face on a daily basis. Loudoun County has decided to tackle them head on, challenging the Innovative Solutions Consortium to find answers.

On Wednesday, August 27, ISC and the Loudoun County Department of Economic Development are holding an event at AOL to provide “proof of concept” solutions to some of Loudoun’s most difficult technology challenges. This inaugural event is focused on public safety and transportation issues, and brings together county leaders, first responders and technology and innovation experts to give their perspectives on the challenges we face– and their solutions.

Loudoun Economic Development Director Buddy Rizer calls this event, “a unique opportunity, and another example of the innovation that our business community brings to the table. We are really excited to have this opportunity for Loudoun’s own Innovative Solutions Consortium and the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce to be involved in helping our public safety and transportation organizations address some difficult challenges.”

Loudoun Board of Supervisors Chairman Scott York will be making a keynote address before the competition portion of the program, along with firefighter and disaster and terrorism adviser for FEMA, Robert Katz, who will be providing first-hand insights as a first responder. The top 10 selected companies will provide demonstrations and presentations of their innovative solutions, and will be evaluated and critiqued by a panel of experts.

If you’re a technology company who wants to learn about the needs of and emerging opportunities with state and local governments, then this is a can’t-miss event. First responders who want a first-hand look at the latest innovations in their field, or anyone who lives or works in Loudoun who is interested in improving our community should also attend.

For more information, including registration links and the full list of presenting companies, visit the Loudoun County Challenge.