Astana named among 15 WIPO City of Innovation award finalists

Astana has been named among the 15 finalists for the 2026 WIPO City of Innovation award, Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Justice reported, citing the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

The award, which recognizes cities developing innovative and creative ecosystems, is being presented for the first time. An independent international jury assessed the cities’ proposed initiatives and plans for implementation over the next year.

Astana’s submission included developing an AI- and data-enabled Smart City platform, creating a single digital portal that provides personalized government services, strengthening the city’s innovation ecosystem, and using technology to improve the sustainability and accessibility of the urban environment.

Cities of different sizes from around the world submitted entries for the award. Alongside Astana, the finalists included cities from Belgium, China, India, Jordan, Morocco, the Philippines, Portugal, Russia, Thailand and the U.K.

Up to three winners will be announced on Oct. 12 at WIPO headquarters in Geneva. The ceremony will take place on the sidelines of the sixth meeting of the UN Forum of Mayors.