Partnerhsip with Guangzhou Institute for Urban Innovation
We are happy to announce that the Guangzhou Institute for Urban Innovation (GIUI), thought leader for the Guangzhou Award for Urban Innovation, and the Institute for Urban Excellence have signed a Letter of Agreement and established a strategic partnership in August 2025.
In view of the shared commitment to promoting sustainable urban development and the local implementation of the Global Goals worldwide, both partners have allied to actively exchange and cooperate in their mission. We are happy to expand iUE’s community of practice and to reinforce our commitment to a global
The 7th Guangzhou International Award for Urban Innovation
The Guangzhou International Award for Urban Innovation recognizes innovation in improving social, economic, and environmental sustainability and good urban governance in cities and regions. In doing so, it aims to advance the prosperity and quality of life of their citizens. So far, six cycles have been held, attracting over 1600 initiatives worldwide. The Award has become a global platform for city-to-city learning on urban innovation, as well as for the documentation, dissemination, and analysis of the local implementation of global agendas, including the SDGs and the New Urban Agenda (NUA).
The Guangzhou International Award for Urban Innovation is co-sponsored by the City of Guangzhou, the United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) and the World Association of the Major Metropolises (Metropolis).
Call for Submissions
The 7th Guangzhou Award is now officially open for submissions. It calls for participation from all cities and local governments around the world with ongoing or recently completed initiatives, including those that are implemented in collaboration with private and civil society partners. The thematic areas include, but are not limited to, the following: social inclusion and shared prosperity, environmental protection and resilience, public services and infrastructure, urban heritage and cultural preservation, smart cities and use of digital technologies, and urban governance. By advocating exchanges and mutual learning, the Guangzhou Award hopes to bring together the urban synergy for sustainable development. Please click here to learn more about the detailed guidelines and follow the updates on the Award’s official website.
EARLY-BIRD SUBMISSION DEADLINE: March 31st 2026
*early-bird submissions may attain expert comments
FINAL SUBMISSION DEADLINE: April 30th 2026