29.06.2026

The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM) has achieved significant international recognition at the 7th Guangzhou International Award for Urban Innovation, one of the world’s leading award programs for local governments.

For the 2026 edition of the competition, 381 projects submitted by 248 cities from 60 countries were evaluated. Following a rigorous assessment by an international Technical Committee, only 15 projects were selected as Shortlisted Initiatives, while 30 projects received the designation of Exemplary Initiative.

As a result of applications coordinated by the IMM Foreign Relations Department, the Healthy Nutrition and Active Living Initiative, developed by the Directorate of Public Health and Hygiene, was selected among the 15 finalist projects from around the world. The initiative earned the title of Shortlisted Initiative and advanced to the final stage of the award evaluation process.

In addition, the following IMM projects were recognized by the international jury as Exemplary Initiatives:

• Sustainable Routing Project, implemented by Directorate of Geographic Information Systems
• Mobile Hygiene and Psychosocial Support Service, implemented by Directorate of Almshouse

The Guangzhou Award has been organized since 2012 through the collaboration of the Guangzhou Municipality, United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG), and Metropolis. The award aims to promote innovative urban governance, facilitate the international exchange of best practices, and support the local implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In this year’s competition, which attracted a record number of participants, the international recognition of three IMM projects highlights the global impact of the municipality’s innovative work in the fields of public health, smart city applications, and social services.

The Healthy Nutrition and Active Living Initiative, having been shortlisted, will continue to compete in the final evaluation stage of the award. The winners will be announced at the official award ceremony to be held in Guangzhou, China, in December 2026.