How do we Create Digital Nations? - Siim Sikkut

Published: July 19, 2022, 2 p.m.

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In today\\u2019s episode, I chat with Siim Sikkut, the former CIO of the Ministry of Economic Affairs & Communications for the government of Estonia, one of the architects of that country\\u2019s truly innovative e-Residency Program, and most recently, a Managing Director at Digital Nation.\\xa0

In 2007, a series of cyberattacks targeted websites of Estonian organizations, including Estonian parliament, banks, ministries, newspapers and broadcasters. While ultimately these attempts were unsuccessful, it was a call-to-action for nation states to take more seriously their digital infrastructure and security.\\xa0

It undoubtedly influenced his later work. In 2014, along with two collaborators, he presented the first real concrete proposal for e-Residency at the Estonian Development Foundation. And a program specific to foreign investors was born. Over time it was expanded to create a bureaucracy-free safe haven for entrepreneurs, digital nomads, and freelancers. And it\\u2019s become a model for other nation states considering a similar value proposition.\\xa0

His latest venture, Digital Nation, leans heavily on those experiences; launching \\u2018future-ready digital societies\\u2019 that overcome traditional barriers; informing digital strategy, policy and application for clients around the globe. \\xa0

This was a particularly fascinating discussion; an intersection of Siim\\u2019s experiences in government organizations, and mine from the private enterprise. We talked at length about his professional journey, accomplishments, and how they ultimately informed his latest venture.\\xa0

It was such a pleasure connecting with Siim. And I hope you enjoy it.\\xa0

Siim Sikkut

Siim Sikkut led the digital government and digital policy area in the Government of Estonia for 10 years, most recently as the Government CIO from 2017 to 2022. Siim has been recognized as one of the world\\u2019s TOP20 most influential people in digital government.

Siim currently advises governments and leaders on digital strategy, the leadership and governance for its delivery, digital service reforms, and public sector innovation. He is a Managing Partner at Digital Nation, a digital advisory network helping to build future-ready digital societies globally.

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Matt Burns

Matt Burns is an award-winning executive, social entrepreneur and speaker. He believes in the power of community, simplicity & technology.

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