There are at least three things I love about this story
- It takes place in Minnesota
- It’s a project that started out at a Code for America event
- It’s a way that technology can increased civic engagemen
The details come from Minneapolis St Paul Business Journal …
GovDelivery has acquired Textizen, a Philadelphia-based startup that lets government agencies communicate with the public through text messaging.
St. Paul-based GovDelivery didn’t disclose terms of the deal.
Government agencies can use Textizen to send texts containing surveys, event reminders, project updates and other notifications. It also allows governments to receive and analyze messages sent by residents.
The company previously participated in nonprofit Code for America’s incubator program, which funds and mentors government-technology startups.
“The Textizen team has demonstrated that it can use interactive text messaging technology and creative problem solving to help improve government and engage citizens,” GovDelivery CEO and founder Scott Burns said in a news release. “Textizen’s capabilities allow us to help government succeed in the critical area of driving individuals to take action.”
My secret wish – GovDeilvery hired the Textizen staff (that is true) and they moved to the Twin Cities and infused new enthusiasm, skills and experience into the local civic coding scene!