
Celebrating its 5th anniversary, the SDG City Awards is now officially open for applications.
Since 2022, the programme has recognised innovative urban policies, initiatives, partnerships,
and case studies that contribute to the localisation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the local government level.
The awards programme is jointly organised by the Urban SDG Knowledge Platform and its partners: CityNet, the Seoul Metropolitan Government, and ESCAP,
with the aim of encouraging city-to-city knowledge sharing and showcasing impactful urban solutions. The awards provide a valuable opportunity for participating cities and regions to enhance their international visibility and further showcase their contributions to sustainable urban development!
Eligibility
Cities, national, local, and regional governments, organisations, and other stakeholder institutions may contribute case studies.
All submitted cases must relate to policies or programmes implemented at the local or city level and must be actively ongoing or have been newly implemented within the past three years. Previously, the scope of the SDG City Awards was limited to case studies from Asia and the Pacific.
In 2026, three categories will be open to applications from urban stakeholders globally!
Awards Categories
Categories Open to Global Applications
Inclusive SDG City Planning
SDG Infrastructure & Urban Development
SDG Urban Circular Economy
Categories Open to Asia-Pacific Applications Only
SDG Urban Environment Impact
SDG Grassroots Innovation
SDG Breakthrough Innovation
Gender Inclusive & Caring Cities
Prize
Top 3 winners will receive a trophy, guaranteed sponsorship to attend an international forum in Seoul, Republic of Korea in 2027, and priority to join follow-up mentorship opportunities and regional programs organized by CityNet and the programme partners. Prize winning case studies will also be highlighted on the Urban SDG Knowledge Platform.
Timeline

How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the Urban SDG Knowledge Platform. Applicants are required to register a free account, download the official application template, complete the required information, and upload the final submission through the awards page.
Links
As a contingency measure, completed application documents may also be submitted via email to sdgplatform@citynet-ap.org.
For any inquiries regarding the application process, please contact Chris DiGennaro, CityNet Officer, at the same email address.