WRI Opened Applications for 2027-2028 Prize for Cities
The World Resources Institute has launched the latest cycle of its global urban innovation competition.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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The World Resources Institute has opened applications for the 2027-2028 WRI Ross Center Prize for Cities, which rewards projects enhancing urban sustainability and resilience. Organizations, governments, and individuals may submit their entries for consideration through the competition website.
Why it matters
The prize seeks to identify and scale transformative urban projects that foster inclusivity and sustainability in cities globally. By providing financial support, the initiative aims to highlight successful models that can be replicated to improve the quality of urban life.
The Grand Prize winner will receive $250,000, while four finalists are awarded $25,000 each. Over five previous cycles, the prize has recognized 25 projects out of more than 1,200 total submissions.
The players
World Resources Institute
This global research organization works to protect the environment and improve the lives of people by focusing on sustainable urban development.
WRI Ross Center for Sustainable Cities
As the urban-focused program of the World Resources Institute, this center provides research and expertise to help cities become more inclusive and resilient.
The details
Applicants can submit projects via the official portal, where an independent jury will evaluate entries to select the eventual winners. The competition is open to a wide range of participants, including community groups, non-governmental organizations, businesses, and local governments.
Timeline
Applications for the prize officially opened on September 30, 2026.
The deadline for all entries is January 13, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. ET.
Market Landscape
The competition follows the established institutional pattern of the WRI Ross Center Prize for Cities, which has been a recurring fixture in the urban planning sector. This cycle continues the organization's focus on incentivizing local urban development solutions as part of a competitive global market for sustainable city practices.
Eligible organizations and local governments can apply for the $250,000 prize to help fund or scale their urban development initiatives. Interested parties must ensure their applications are submitted before the January 13, 2027 deadline to be considered by the jury.
The takeaway
This competition provides a significant platform for urban projects to secure funding and international recognition for their sustainability efforts. Participants should focus on documenting the measurable impact and replicability of their work to improve their chances with the jury.
Further reading
For more information on the latest corporate and organizational news, visit the /business/openings/ section.
More information
To review eligibility requirements and start your submission, visit the WRI Ross Center Prize application portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by World Resources Institute.
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