2026 Innovate4Cities Conference

The Innovate4Cities Conference (I4C26) is coming to Nairobi, Kenya on 21–24 June 2026. Co-hosted by UN-Habitat and the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate & Energy (GCoM), I4C26 will bring together city leaders, researchers, innovators, and climate experts to connect science, policy, practice, and innovation for a sustainable urban future.

Register here!
Innovate4Cities

What is Innovate4Cities?

Innovate4Cities (I4C) is the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate & Energy (GCoM)’s city-focused research and innovation initiative. Built around the needs of cities, I4C connects policy, practice, and science – locally and globally – to unlock climate solutions at speed and scale. Through hosting dedicated spaces for knowledge exchange, global conferences, and pioneering research and innovation outputs, I4C creates and strengthens opportunities for cities across the globe to turn ambition into action.

Tackling Climate Change and Building a Resilient Future for All

Do you live in a city? Home looks different for each of us, but more than half of the world’s population calls a city home. By 2050, that number will soar to 70%. Cities are not just where we live; they are the building blocks of our future.

As we face the growing challenges of climate change, cities sit on the frontlines — and in the driver’s seat. Mayors are not just local leaders, they are global climate champions.

To keep Earth livable and limit warming, we must act now to build net-zero, resilient, and equitable communities.

The Global Research and Action Agenda on Cities and Climate Change Science

The Global Research and Action Agenda for Cities and Climate Change Science (GRAA) brings together the latest research, practical experiences, and innovative approaches to urban climate action. The GRAA identifies critical knowledge gaps and outlines action priorities that can drive progress, creating a shared roadmap for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers worldwide.

Explore the updated GRAA

Latest News

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The 2026 Innovate4Cities Conference concludes in Nairobi with renewed commitment to turn urban climate knowledge into action

The 2026 Innovate4Cities Conference concludes in Nairobi with renewed commitment to turn urban climate knowledge into action

Nairobi, 25 June 2026 – The 2026 Innovate4Cities Conference (I4C26) concluded in Nairobi, Kenya, after four days of exchange, collaboration and partnership-building aimed at accelerating climate action in cities. Marking a historic first as the Conference landed on the African continent, I4C26 brought together city and national government leaders, researchers, practitioners, businesses, civil society, youth … read more

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The 2026 AI x City Climate Action Hackathon is officially live

The 2026 AI x City Climate Action Hackathon is officially live

The AI x City Climate Action Hackathon returns for its third consecutive year, marking a significant milestone in the convergence of artificial intelligence and urban sustainability. Following the resounding success of the 2024 and 2025 editions, the 2026 Hackathon has evolved into our most ambitious initiative to date. This year’s program transcends traditional boundaries, expanding … read more

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New opportunity to join the CBCA Network

New opportunity to join the CBCA Network

Download the Expression of Interest Form HERE From 22 June, cities and GCoM signatories are welcome to apply for membership of the City-Business Climate Alliance (CBCA) network. This global partnership between C40 Cities and the Global Covenant of Mayors (GCoM) provides a unique platform for city governments to share ideas on how to influence and … read more

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