National Geographic Channel featured San Diego as the only US city in its documentary series "World's Smart Cities" due to its strong technology sector, local innovators, green practices, and quality of life. The documentary explored how San Diego's size, diversity, economy, educational institutions, and community leadership have made it a model for 21st century urban environments driven by technology, talent, and innovation. San Diego was also ranked the best city to launch a startup due to factors like the percentage of small businesses accepting credit cards, operating in high growth industries, and using websites and social media.