A reflection on WRLDCTY 2024 & Bilbao.
Last week BLOSSITY had the opportunity to travel to the Spanish city of Bilbao and contribute to WRLDCTY again. In a fireside chat Jeremy Bamberg & Jorick Beijer explored all things innovation districts and the complex ways in which talent sticks to our cities 🌟
Bilbao is not unique in its radical transformation of its industrial identity and urban form. What sets it apart, however, is its deep-rooted attitude to change and cultural embedding – far beyond iconic landmarks like the Guggenheim.
The city’s high quality of life (including its incredible gastronomy!) and strong public partnerships through Bilbao Metropoli 30 are two key underpinnings of what I like to call #stickycities. These elements lay the foundation for long-term success.
I’m particularly curious to see how Bilbao continues to find new ways to grow new economies and further integrate higher education into the urban fabric. By putting talent at the heart of cities like Bilbao, business and foreign investment can really stick.
It’s been a great again to spend time with a global group of like-minded individuals at WRLDCTY and The Bay Urban Visioning Awards, all sharing similar values and building on each other’s unique perspectives. What unites us? Turning ideas into action. No plans on paper. Just better stories and sparking real change.
Let’s go, Bilbao Aurrera! 💥