Urban development and design provider ICON announced the launch of Network of City Innovators, a pioneering CSR initiative aimed at addressing today’s urban challenges through collaborative, cross-disciplinary innovation. Launched at Cityscape Global 2024 in Riyadh, this transformative network seeks to address complex issues aligned with the acceleration of urbanization that demand collective expertise and diverse perspectives.
The Network is established as a platform for bringing together experts in urban planning, environmental science, social policy, technology, and the arts, encouraging solution-oriented dialogue and sustainable urban development. Encompassing ‘Creative City Walk – A Think Tank on the Move’ and ‘Creative City Talk – Cross-disciplinary conversations’, the initiative embodies ICON’s commitment to fostering cities that are resilient, liveable, and responsive to local communities’ evolving needs.
Uniting expertise across GCC and beyond
“City innovators” is designed to support open dialogue and knowledge sharing among a diverse network of city officials, urban developers, consultants, artists, researchers, and engaged community members. By connecting local needs with global expertise, the network seeks to tackle pressing issues such as sustainable infrastructure, climate resilience, and urban liveability. In addition, the Network launch at Cityscape Global 2024 underscores ICON’s leadership in sustainable urban transformation and invites communities across the GCC to be active participants in this mission.
Platform for real-world innovation
Moreover, to drive meaningful impact, the Network has introduced two core programs which encourage hands-on collaboration between urban professionals and local communities.
Creative City Walk – A Think Tank on the Move will be hosted monthly in cities across the GCC. These sessions combine on-the-ground engagement with expert insight, allowing participants to explore city-specific challenges in real-world settings. Additionally, this “mobile think tank” facilitates interactions between community members and urban designers by connecting urban planning with the people it serves and inspiring impactful, innovative solutions.
Creative City Talk – Cross-disciplinary conversations will be held quarterly with delivery of content provided in chapters by city, beginning with Riyadh. The initiative aims to provide a collaborative space where urban experts can present insights and ideas before participating in a roundtable discussion on critical topics in city development. This program further encourages knowledge-sharing and seeks to uncover new voices, fostering interdisciplinary approaches to the complex challenges facing today’s urban spaces.
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