Innovation challenges

The Healthy Cities Challenge is a global call for innovative and ready-to-implement ideas that shape healthy, green and thriving urban neighbourhoods, launched by Novo Nordisk in partnership with C40. 

The challenge is open to any non-profit or university across the globe to submit proposals through our online platform. The winners will each receive a grant of 100,000 US dollars to pilot their solution. The challenge runs from April to June 2024.

The global rise in chronic diseases is largely driven by a change in the environments we live in, notably lacking supportive factors for good health and well-being.

Cities are facing a climate and health inequity crisis due to outdated planning models, leading to fragmented food systems, polluted air, sedentary lifestyles, and poor access to nature, as well as lack of services, amenities and social cohesion, which all contribute to driving the global increase in chronic diseases.

Neighbourhood food environments heavily influence dietary habits for urban residents, while urban spaces impact physical activity levels. Transforming these environments to promote health and equipping individuals with the necessary skills and resources are key to promoting healthy lifestyles.

Unhealthy environments disproportionately impact underserved and marginalised populations, facing limited access to nutritious foods and opportunities for physical activity. Socioeconomic disparities exacerbate these challenges, underscoring the need for societal action to create inclusive, supportive environments for all to lead healthy lives.