Governments Hire This ‘Future of Work Explorer’ to Help Set Up Digital Nomad Programs

More governments are warming to the idea of digital nomads, shifting their outlook from short-term tourism win to economic development. Consultant Albert Canigueral recently returned from Croatia, where he took part in the country’s first digital nomads-in-residence program. The city of Dubrovnik enticed 10 nomads over for a month’s free stay, but on the condition they spent every Friday helping it frame something more structured, beyond simply issuing special visas. One of the suggestions they came back with was that Dubrovnik should create a certification or stamp for long-term accommodation providers, so they can show they are digital nomad, or workcation, friendly. Canigueral joked that while in Dubrovnik, he didn’t have a kettle in his room. Small things like that can make a difference. “We’ve suggested kitchenettes with equipment, plus a desk space and good internet. You could have a label that certifies the space,” he said. External inspectors can be appointed, o