They attract the best talent worldwide, which contributes to continuing economic growth.

These cities’ foundations lie in superior sustainability policies, strong infrastructure, diverse economies, skilled labor and a high quality of life. A clear example of the impact cities can make is seen in C40, a network of the world’s megacities that are committed to addressing climate change. Global Cities also offer a solution to combating climate change. With two thirds of carbon emissions focused on cities, the transition to net zero carbon and achieving the goals set out in The Paris Agreement would require changes to first be made in these cities that are backed by sustainability policies. Investing in real assets within these cities gives exposure to a diverse range of industries (from data centers, self-storage and manufactured homes to conventional areas such as offices, retail, and industrial facilities) and access to economies that are expected to outperform national averages. So knowing which cities stand to benefit from this demographic shift means investors can target the right opportunities. “Representing Louisville-Lexington, it struck me as I listened and spoke in these sessions that the enduring value of the GCI work has been not just to convene some of these top 100 metropolitan areas, but to deputize us-to imbue us with a sense of the critical role of these cities in the future of countries vying to be counted among the leaders and innovators of the 21st century.It's expected that by 2050, nearly 70% of the world's population (compared to 55% today) will reside in urban areas. And so for us, it is really cutting edge economic development.”įormer Vice President, Greater Portland Inc. “With the majority of the world’s consumers overseas and increasing amounts of innovation and partnerships driving global partnerships, we see it as crucial that Greater Portland be engaged internationally, and we have really benefitted not only from the research and strategy support from the Global Cities Initiative, but also through the interchange of ideas and experiences with other metros in the Initiative that have both piloted or have followed on this important work. Senior Vice President, Economic Development at the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation We’re looking to change that in partnership with the public, private, and academic partners throughout our community.”

And so today we’re looking to change that. San Diego for some time has been punching below its weight relative to our global engagement. “San Diego is poised to really take that step onto the global stage in a way that we have not before.

Global cities inc