CFPs: Innovation in Urban Commercial Real Estate and Public Spaces (UK)

This is an exciting opportunity for academics and industry professionals to help shape the future of urban CRE and associated public space, with research aimed at informing how urban CRE developments can meet the challenges of 21st century urban renewal. Successful applicants will offer insights to help them implement practical solutions for sustainability, health, inclusivity, and climate resilience in urban CRE developments.

Funding Information

• They are offering between £5,000 and £25,000 for research that furthers their thinking and research, and providing impactful insights for innovation in this sector.

Focus Areas

• Exploring innovation in the urban CRE Sector: They invite research proposals exploring innovation in urban Commercial Real Estate (CRE) to help future-proof the industry while maximizing social, environmental, and economic value. They will select one or more research proposals under this tender.
  • Potential focus areas include (but are not limited to):
    • Technology innovation: addressing barriers to digitisation to be responsive to opportunities for local growth and sustainability.
    • Flexible and adaptable spaces: innovative repurposing of existing assets for shifting work and living patterns.
    • Climate resilience and net zero: sustainability to ensure asset longevity.
    • Inclusivity and social value: fostering vibrant, diverse urban spaces that deliver value for all.
    • Health and wellbeing: enhancing user experience and productivity.
    • Innovative financing: emerging models and approaches to overcome investment barriers for long-term financial sustainability.
• Exploring challenges and innovation opportunities for public space in urban CRE: They invite research proposals exploring innovation in public spaces within Commercial Real Estate (CRE) to enhance social, environmental, and economic outcomes. They will select one or more research proposals under this tender.
  • Potential focus areas include (but are not limited to):
    • Technology innovation: reshaping how public spaces are designed and experienced by emerging technologies.
    • Changing use models: flexible, multi-purpose public spaces that adapt to community needs.
    • Safety, inclusivity & social value: inclusive public spaces that foster engagement for diverse groups.
    • Innovative financing: emerging models and approaches to deliver and sustain value in public spaces.
    • Climate resilience: enhancing public spaces for biodiversity, air quality, and climate resilience.

For more information, visit Connected Places Catapult.