Programs & Initiatives
From research labs to fellowships and policy networks — our programs translate knowledge into action across three continents.
Research That Moves From Insight to Impact
ICCCASU's programs are designed to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world urban policy. Each initiative is structured around a specific challenge — whether building city resilience, enabling knowledge exchange, or developing the next generation of urban practitioners.
All programs operate across our trilateral mandate, ensuring that insights from Canadian, Chinese, and African urban contexts inform and enrich one another.
6
Active Programs
340+
Practitioners Trained
50+
Cities Engaged
24
Fellows Supported
Current Initiatives
Urban Resilience Lab
A collaborative research initiative examining how cities across Canada, China, and Africa can better withstand climate shocks, economic disruptions, and social pressures. The lab produces applied research, policy briefs, and city-level case studies.
Key Outcomes
- 12 city case studies published
- 3 policy frameworks adopted by municipal governments
- Network of 40+ urban resilience researchers
Smart City Knowledge Exchange
Facilitating direct knowledge transfer between Chinese smart city innovators and African urban planners. This program includes site visits, joint workshops, and co-authored technical reports on technology-enabled urban governance.
Key Outcomes
- 6 bilateral workshops held
- 18 cities participating across 8 countries
- 4 joint technical reports published
Green Infrastructure Fellowship
An annual fellowship supporting early-career researchers and practitioners working on green infrastructure solutions in Canadian cities. Fellows receive mentorship, research funding, and access to ICCCASU's global network.
Key Outcomes
- 24 fellows supported since 2019
- $1.2M in research funding awarded
- Fellows placed in 11 countries
Policy Innovation Network
A standing network of policymakers, municipal officials, and urban governance experts from Canada, China, and Africa who convene annually and collaborate year-round on shared urban policy challenges.
Key Outcomes
- 120+ active network members
- Annual policy summit in rotating host cities
- 8 joint policy recommendations submitted to UN-Habitat
Urban Data Commons
An open-access repository of urban development data, indicators, and research datasets from cities across the three regions. The Commons enables comparative research and evidence-based policymaking at scale.
Key Outcomes
- Data from 50+ cities being compiled
- Open-access launch planned for Q3 2026
- Partnership with 6 national statistics agencies
Next-Gen Cities Program
A capacity-building program for African municipal staff, providing training in urban planning, sustainable infrastructure management, and data-driven governance. Delivered in partnership with African universities and city governments.
Key Outcomes
- 340+ municipal staff trained
- Delivered in 14 African cities
- Curriculum co-developed with 5 African universities
Participate in an ICCCASU Program
Whether you are a researcher, policymaker, urban practitioner, or institution — there is a place for you in ICCCASU's growing network. Explore fellowship opportunities, apply to join a program, or partner with us to launch a new initiative.
For Researchers
Apply for fellowships, submit research proposals, or join a working group.
For Policymakers
Join the Policy Innovation Network and contribute to cross-continental governance dialogue.
For Institutions
Partner with ICCCASU to co-host programs, co-fund research, or host a conference.