The Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University is launching a series of Open Research Calls to support rigorous, practice-relevant research on urban problem-solving and innovation in local government. Open to researchers and research teams from around the world, the calls will focus on how city leaders can respond to the key challenges facing cities.
We aim to fund research that tests or examines the effectiveness of policies and interventions, as well as research that advances knowledge on the conditions under which city governments can implement solutions, manage performance, and innovate. We welcome proposals from researchers across diverse fields and methodological traditions, including projects developed in partnership with local governments. The first calls will launch in fall 2026.
Together, the Open Research Calls aim to fill critical gaps in knowledge about urban problem-solving and innovation in local government while growing and supporting a global scholarly community dedicated to research on those issues.
To receive updates about upcoming Open Research Calls, sign up here.
Wednesday, October 14, 2026
What can an ordinary sidewalk tell us about the way we govern, design, and share our communities? Join the hybrid event featuring Michael Pollack, author of “Sidewalk Nation,” as he examines the overlooked infrastructure that shapes everyday life.
Tuesday, October 20, 2026
Have lunch and hear from Kaya Comer-Schwartz, London’s Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime in conversation with Kimberlyn Leary of HKS, HMS, and HSPH about the leadership and collaboration required to advance public safety in one of the world’s largest and most diverse cities.
Monday, October 26, 2026
How can law enforcement and community members work together to keep our cities safe? Jessica Tisch, Commissioner of the New York City Police Department, joins us for a discussion on the evolving dynamics of policing in a major American city.
Wednesday, October 28, 2026
From the FIFA World Cup and Olympic Games to major climate summits and global convenings, cities increasingly serve as stages for some of the world's most visible and consequential events. Have lunch and join mayors who have planned and hosted major international events as they discuss their experiences with hosting events like these with Harvard Kennedy School faculty.
Thursday, October 29, 2026
Join the Bloomberg Center for Cities for lunch and a conversation with Linda Hill, renowned leadership scholar, Harvard Business School professor, and author of "Genius at Scale." Drawing on decades of research and work with organizations around the world, Hill will explore how leaders can unlock collective intelligence and build cultures where innovation can flourish.
Sept. 23, Oct. 7, & Nov. 4, 2026
This student study group will examine how AI is reshaping entrepreneurial opportunity across cities and regions, with a focus on labor demand, firm competitiveness, small business access, and how local governments can navigate economic transition.
