Why Apply?

Apply for the Prize to showcase your city's urban achievements, gain global recognition, and join a worldwide network of innovative cities.

Last updated 14 September 2026

Why apply for the Prize?

By applying for the Prize, you will get to:

01	Assess your city’s potential Undertake a rigorous self-evaluation process through the submission report to delve deep into your city’s data to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement
02	Showcase your city’s brilliance Highlight up to 5 impactful projects that exemplify your city’s urban initiatives and inspire other cities to follow your lead.
03	Be among a global community of innovators Learn from other Prize cities and collaborate with these leaders to address shared challenges.

Winner benefits

The benefits are as follows:

	Prize Laureate	Special Mentions
Cash Prize in Singapore Dollars	✓
Prize Medallion	✓
Crystal Trophy		✓
Award Certificate	✓	✓
Travel expenses covered to attend World Cities Summit in Singapore^1.	✓	✓
Receive award at the Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize Award Ceremony & Banquet	✓	✓
Share achievements at Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize Lecture	✓	✓
Features on the Prize website, LinkedIn page (opens in new tab), YouTube channel (opens in new tab) and publications	✓	✓
International media coverage^2.	✓	✓
Participate in knowledge-sharing and capacity-building programmes	✓	✓

Prize Cycle

The stages are as follows:

Stage A Nominations	Cities interested in applying for the Prize must secure a nomination from an independent third-party expert in urban planning and cities, such as a professor of urban planning or a related field. Self-nominations will not be accepted, and nominators without relevant expertise in urban fields may be disqualified. ➜ Stage A Nominations
Stage B Submissions	Following a valid nomination, nominated cities will be notified to prepare and submit a comprehensive written report for the jury’s evaluation. Returning applicants have the option to provide an update on specific areas, rather than a full report. ➜ Stage B Submissions
Evaluations	A two-tier evaluation process is used to select the winner. The Nominating Committee reviews all submissions and shortlists the top contenders, which are then reviewed by the Prize Council to select the winner. If needed, additional information may be requested or site visits conducted to support the evaluation, with the Prize Secretariat covering all related costs. ➜ Evaluation Process and Criteria
Results & Award	The winners will be announced in an official press release, showcasing their achievements and success stories. They will receive their awards and share their experiences at high-profile events, and have their stories featured on the Prize’s online platforms and marketing materials, providing opportunities for recognition and sharing their accomplishments with a wider audience. ➜ Prize events

1. Exclusive one-time offer for the head of delegation and accompanying officer(s) to attend the next World Cities Summit edition only. Offer is non-recurring, non-perpetual, and non-transferable.

2. International media coverage for press releases only. Feature stories or dedicated articles subject to the Prize Secretariat's discretion and decision to pursue media pitching.