Montreal hub for urban innovation
This initiative is in partnership with UN-HABITAT.
Description
The Institute and UN-Habitat are partnering to address urban challenges through joint research, educational programs, and sustainable development initiatives for urban innovation.
The partnership between Concordia and UN-Habitat was formalized on September 18, 2025, during a bilateral meeting at the offices of Montréal International.
This collaboration was established to address pressing urban challenges such as the global housing crisis, rapid urbanization, affordability gaps, and climate change. These challenges place significant pressure on local governments, making partnerships with research institutions like Concordia crucial for UN-Habitat to support effective responses.
The partnership focuses on joint applied research projects in key areas such as affordable housing, climate resilience, access to essential services, and sustainable land use. It also aims to co-develop innovative projects, create educational programs, build capacity for sustainable development, and foster international policy dialogue.
Together, UN-Habitat and NGCI are planning to work on the following areas:
- Innovative projects addressing urban challenges.
- Educational programs to enhance knowledge and skills in sustainable development.
- Capacity building for sustainable urban development.
- International policy dialogue to support equitable and sustainable cities.
Timing: ongoing
Budget: none
Our team
- Prof. Aaron Johnson, Associate Vice President Research, Strategic Institutional Initiatives and Innovation
- William Cheaib, Chief of Staff and Associate Vice-President International
- Prof. Ursula Eicker, Canada Excellence Research Chair Laureate in Smart, Sustainable and Resilient Communities and Cities, Founding Director NGCI
- Michael Bossert, Manager Strategy, Innovation and Outreach
- Ivona Bossert, Advisor Science Communication and Engagement
