Bloomberg Philanthropies name finalists for Global Mayors Challenge

What's happening: Mayors from 631 cities in 99 countries submitted ideas for the most important public innovations needed by their localities.

• That initial list was whittled down to 50 finalists in 29 countries, with each idea judged on vision, potential for impact, feasibility, and transferability.

The big picture: Unsurprisingly given the shadow of the pandemic, innovations focused on improving health and reducing unemployment were common around the world.

• U.S. cities zeroed in on racial justice and equity, while social inclusion was a major theme in Europe and raw infrastructure topped concerns in fast-growing African cities.
• "A common theme was that cities are working to address the inequalities that the pandemic has underscored across a wide range of issues, including access to healthcare, economic opportunity, and clean/vibrant urban spaces," says Mellody Hobson, co-CEO and president of Ariel Investments and a co-chair of the Mayors Selection Committee.

What they're saying: "It is critically important that cities around the world control the pandemic to ensure the long-term sustainability of urban life," says David Miliband, president and CEO of the International Rescue Committee and a co-chair of the selection committee.

• "But it is just as important that we don’t simply return to business as usual once the pandemic passes," he adds.

What's next: 15 of the 50 finalist cities will be selected for the grand prize, receiving $1 million and technical assistance to implement their ideas.