COGITO

When a giant restructures: what Volkswagen’s job cuts mean for local labour markets

27 July 2026 Lukas Kleine-Rueschkamp - (OECD)

Reading Time: 3 minutesRecent reports suggest Volkswagen could close several German plants and cut up to 100,000 jobs globally, in what may be its largest-ever restructuring. Factories in Hanover, Zwickau, Emden and Neckarsulm would be hit hardest, as traditional automakers face pressure from Chinese competition, rising costs, and a slower-than-expected shift to EVs. Can Europe’s manufacturing heartlands adapt fast enough to survive the EV transition?

Industrial Policy Needs to be Systematic, Not Just Ad Hoc

20 July 2026 Marc Fasteau - (the Coalition for a Prosperous America) and Ian Fletcher - (the Coalition for a Prosperous America)

Reading Time: 4 minutesAfter decades during which the very concept was taboo and the reality swept under the rug, the world has now rediscovered industrial policy. But too much of it is reactive, scattered, and driven by whichever crisis has the attention of the moment. How can we create a more systemic approach that recognizes the issues we face are interconnected and rooted in real places?

Smart Cities Are Not Enough: Cities Need Resilience Systems

16 July 2026 Stéphane Gervais - (ApexTransform)

Reading Time: 3 minutesFor years, cities have invested in smart sensors, dashboards and digital services. But as shocks cascade across water, energy, transport and social systems, smart cities aren’t enough. What will it take to turn smart infrastructure into real resilience?

When National Climate Averages Miss the Story

13 July 2026 Dr. Parag Khanna - (AlphaGeo) and Dr. Yusra Ghafoor - (AlphaGeo)

Reading Time: 4 minutesWhen France recorded its hottest day in history last week, 41°C in Bordeaux, multiple deaths, half the country under red alert, the story got covered the way climate risk almost always is: one country, one number. But, how do we know which regions inside these countries are actually carrying the long-term economic cost?

Cutting red tape where it matters most: Why SMEs need simpler local rules

02 July 2026 Marie Tirilly - (Business at OECD)

Reading Time: 4 minutesPolicymakers are placing renewed emphasis on regulatory simplification, seeking to cut red tape and help firms grow. For SMEs, this is crucial: growth is shaped not by one law, but by permits and reporting requirements piling across levels of government. How can governments simplify this patchwork without losing its safeguards?

The Local Launchpad: Why Incubators and Accelerators Matter

26 June 2026 Pablo Shah - (OECD)

Reading Time: 3 minutesAt their best, incubators and accelerators are the beating heart of the local business community. By combining physical working spaces with financing, training and mentoring, they can mean the difference between a business thriving and never getting off the ground. But what does it actually take to build an incubator or accelerator that delivers?

From rainfall to response: how data guided recovery in Maipú

17 June 2026 Tomás Vodanovic Escudero - (Mayor)

Reading Time: 4 minutesOn Saturday, 31 January 2026, a single cloud changed Maipú in less than an hour – 17 millimetres of rainfall in forty-five minutes, flooding streets and destroying homes. Images spread across social media. Many claimed they were fake. They were not. The storm devastated more than a thousand families. So how did Maipú use real-time data to reach those in need?

De las lluvias a la respuesta: cómo los datos guiaron la recuperación en Maipú

17 June 2026 Tomás Vodanovic Escudero - (Mayor)

Reading Time: 4 minutesEl sábado 31 de enero de 2026, una sola nube transformó Maipú en menos de una hora – 17 milímetros de lluvia en cuarenta y cinco minutos, inundando calles y destruyendo viviendas. Las imágenes se difundieron por las redes sociales. Muchos afirmaron que eran falsas. No lo eran. La tormenta devastó a más de mil familias. ¿Cómo usó Maipú los datos en tiempo real para llegar a quienes lo necesitaban?

Lost in the policy maze: Why UK SMEs are missing out on tech gains

12 June 2026 Juan Ramón Larraín Aylwin - (OECD, Centre for Entrepreneurship, SMEs, Regions and Cities)

Reading Time: 3 minutesAI is spreading through the UK economy, but not quickly enough. Recent UK evidence shows that around one in three firms with fewer than 50 employees adopted AI, compared with almost two in three larger businesses, while regional adoption ranged from 32% in the North East to 67% in London. What can government do to close these adoption gaps?

The social economy is bigger business than you think

10 June 2026 Melis Aslan - (OECD, Centre for Entrepreneurship, SMEs, Regions and Cities)

Reading Time: 4 minutesThe social economy is rarely part of conversations about competitiveness or economic resilience, yet it should be. Social economy organisations create jobs, deliver essential services and strengthen local economies across countries. But what does it take to build an environment that allows them to contribute fully?

SME decarbonisation at a crossroads: What should governments do next?

04 June 2026 Jan-Philipp Schmidt - (OECD Centre for Entrepreneurship, SMEs, Regions and Cities)

Reading Time: 3 minutesGoing green is good for business and the planet. But as policymakers focus on geopolitical risks, energy security and the rise of AI, the low-carbon transition risks being sidelined, especially for smaller businesses. How can governments keep up the momentum?

Smart cities that leave no one behind

01 June 2026 Liz St Louis - (Director of Smart Cities and Enabling Services at Sunderland City Council)

Reading Time: 3 minutesSmart city has become shorthand for digital ambition, but it still tends to conjure images of large cities, costly infrastructure and tech-led programmes that feel remote from everyday life. Sunderland’s experience points to a different approach. But what makes it different?

Tourism Beyond Tokyo: how Sendai is building a more resilient visitor economy

29 May 2026 Kazuko Kohri - (Mayor)

Reading Time: 4 minutesJapan welcomed more than 40 million international visitors in 2025, setting a new record. While Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka dominate, other cities are working to raise their profile. How is Sendai seeking to grow internationally while ensuring tourism strengthens resilience and benefits local people?

Regenerative tourism: Rio’s model for resilient destinations

19 May 2026 Paulo Gontijo - (Director of Institutional Relations, Compliance and Sustainability at Grupo Iter)

Reading Time: 4 minutesBrazil has spent a decade building a purposeful tourism model that combines economic dynamism with environmental responsibility, restoring ecosystems, strengthening communities and generating lasting impact. Its approach is deliberate, not accidental. What can other countries learn from Brazil’s model?

Who’s visiting today? How real-time tourism data can help destinations stay ahead

15 May 2026 Teja Zupančič - (The Statistical Office of the Republic of Slovenia)

Reading Time: 4 minutesRapid growth in visitor numbers can strain infrastructure, increase environmental pressures and erode a destination’s authenticity. Good data is essential for decision-makers managing these trade-offs. How can governments get the tourism data they need, and is Slovenia showing us what that looks like in practice?

Connecting communities in Alba lulia: why urban-rural linkages matter

07 May 2026 Gabriel Pleșa - (Mayor of Alba Iulia)

Reading Time: 4 minutesThousands travel into Alba Iulia daily for work, school and services, while rural businesses supply food, goods and visitors that strengthen the city in return. The relationship runs both ways. What lessons can be drawn on building skills, mobility and collaboration between rural and urban communities?

COGITO Talks… AI in small businesses: hype, hope or hard reality?

30 April 2026 Alix Philouze - (OECD), Shayne MacLachlan - (OECD), Leonardo Baggiani, Robyn Baker - (Unicorn Copy & Strategy) and Regitze Vestergaard Jacobsen - (Hotel Gl)

Reading Time: 7 minutesRecorded live for the first time at the 7th Digital for SMEs (D4SME) Roundtable, this special episode is hosted by Shayne MacLachlan and Alix Philouze.

Building the ecosystem around the rules: What AI startups actually need from policy

28 April 2026 Jennifer Woodard

Reading Time: 3 minutesSome frame AI policy as a choice between protecting people and enabling innovation, but that is too simple. Regulation and growth need not be opposed. How can governments close the gap between AI policy ambition and reality so that early-stage companies can genuinely innovate and scale?

Time, certainty, and the cost of capital: What the OECD’s latest SME finance Scoreboard means for America’s small businesses

24 April 2026 Thomas M. Sullivan

Reading Time: 4 minutesSmall and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) don’t ask for special treatment. They ask for a fair shot, and the ability to plan. How can the uncertainty gap be closed and what lessons can be drawn from what the US Chamber of Commerce is doing to help?

When energy shocks hit home

22 April 2026 Ji-Soo Yoon - (OECD), Takahiro Yamada and Matylda Strand

Reading Time: 3 minutesSince late February 2026, the escalation of conflict in the Middle East has sent shockwaves through global energy markets. Can faster, simpler and more trusted building renovations turn energy shocks into a catalyst for greater resilience and long‑term security?

Housing an ageing society: Lessons from France’s overseas territories

16 April 2026 Thomas Kergonou Jimenez - (OECD) and Romain Bayona-Ruiz

Reading Time: 4 minutesBy 2030, Guadeloupe and Martinique are expected to have between 70 and 80 elderly people for every 100 people of working age, compared with around 60 in mainland France. This highlights the particularly rapid pace of demographic aging in these territories.

What lessons can be drawn from housing in France’s overseas territories to manage this transition effectively?

Loger une société qui vieillit : les Outre-mer français en première ligne

16 April 2026 Thomas Kergonou Jimenez and Romain Bayona-Ruiz

Reading Time: 4 minutesD’ici 2030, la Guadeloupe et la Martinique compteront entre 70 et 80 personnes âgées pour 100 en âge de travailler, contre environ 60 en France hexagonale, révélant un vieillissement démographique particulièrement rapide dans ces territoires.
Quels enseignements tirer du logement dans les outre‑mer français pour gérer efficacement cette transition ?

COGITO Talks… Fuel, fear and flights: How the tourism sector learned to withstand global shocks

08 April 2026 Shayne MacLachlan - (OECD) and Sergio Guerreiro - (Turismo de Portugal)

Reading Time: 9 minutesOver the 10 years, global tourism has been reshaped by successive crises, from the collapse of travel during COVID-19, the Russia-Ukraine war, and the current conflict in the Gulf and the rise of petrol prices. In this episode, Shayne MacLachlan from the OECD, speaks with Sérgio Guerreiro, Chair of the OECD Tourism Committee, about how governments have responded to uncertainty and what resilience means in practice. Together, they explore how tourism policy is evolving to balance growth with sustainability, community impact and long-term stability in an increasingly unpredictable world.

Putting industrial policy in its place

07 April 2026 Dorothée Allain-Dupré - (OECD), Rudiger Ahrend - (OECD) and Andrew Paterson - (OECD)

Reading Time: 4 minutesAfter years in economic exile, industrial policies are back in a big way. Industrial policy interventions increased 20-fold in the past decade, as governments seek to rebuild competitiveness, support emerging technologies and shore up supply chains. This is true in OECD countries, but also in developing countries which use it more intensively. Many of these are adopting a place-based approach: between 2019-22, regional industrial policy support rose by over 50% as a share of GDP in 11 OECD countries. But why?

How a small boost can lead to big dreams: microfinance success stories

03 April 2026 Marie Vial and Nicola Benaglio

Reading Time: 5 minutesAt just 16 years old, while working in a bakery in Paraguay, Vanessa realised she had found her calling. While others continued their studies, she chose a different path, staying close to the work that inspired her most: serving customers with care, leading a team and delivering quality products while supporting local producers. While young entrepreneurs remain largely underrepresented across Europe, how was Vanessa able to turn her vision into a reality?

“How many hours, how many pages?” The hidden cost of cybersecurity for SMEs

27 March 2026 Liina Kamm - (Cybernetica)

Reading Time: 4 minutesFor large companies serving millions of customers, cyber threats are an unfortunate reality. They operate complex digital infrastructures, handle vast amounts of sensitive data, and usually have dedicated cybersecurity teams and resources to manage these risks. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), however, face a very different reality. Many handle sensitive customer information but cannot afford a dedicated cybersecurity specialist. As cyber threats grow more frequent and sophisticated, how can SMEs protect their data without the resources of large companies?

When unemployment rises, people reach for entrepreneurship: how can governments help them?

24 March 2026 Polly Dhaliwal - (Enterprise Nation)

Reading Time: 4 minutesAs the UK labour market adjusts to a new economic reality, recent data from the Office for National Statistics shows unemployment rising to around 5.2%, its highest level since 2021. This shift reflects broader global patterns, where hiring is slowing and many traditional roles are being reshaped by automation and artificial intelligence. While numbers alone do not always capture the real picture, history tells us that periods of disruption have often acted as catalysts for reinvention. That is also true of what we are experiencing now.

The weight of the cloud: the cost of AI for water

22 March 2026 Ander Eizaguirre - (OECD) and Enol Nieto Jiménez

Reading Time: 3 minutesWhen people talk about “the cloud”, it sounds weightless, something almost magical floating in the sky. Except that it isn’t. It lives on the ground, in data centres filled with servers that store, process and move staggering amounts of information every second. These data centres consume energy, occupy land, use metals and minerals from global supply chains – and they need vast amounts of water for cooling.

Repensar las realidades rurales: cuáles son los desafíos y dónde se encuentran las oportunidades

10 March 2026 Dorothée Allain-Dupré - (OECD)

Reading Time: 6 minutesEn el imaginario colectivo, las regiones rurales suelen evocar imágenes de abandono y decadencia. Sin embargo, esto está lejos de reflejar la realidad. Las zonas rurales albergan al 30% de la población de la OCDE y, en algunos casos, están creciendo más rápido que las ciudades en términos de desarrollo, productividad e innovación. Entonces, ¿por qué las narrativas obsoletas sobre el declive rural siguen eclipsando sus contribuciones? Ha llegado el momento de desmontar los mitos que frenan a estas regiones.

De la informalidad a la inclusión: Compartiendo los recursos rurales de América Latina

04 March 2026 Roxana Glavanov - (OECD) and Amal Chevreau - (OECD)

Reading Time: 4 minutesLas comunidades rurales de América Latina producen gran parte de los alimentos, energía y minerales de los que depende el mundo. Sin embargo, para la mayoría de los habitantes rurales, la promesa de una prosperidad duradera sigue siendo inalcanzable porque a: pesar de esta riqueza, el trabajo informal e inseguro sigue presente, debilitando los medios de vida, servicios y oportunidades a largo plazo.

「チルドレンファースト」で未来を切り拓く

19 February 2026 Yuriko Koike - (Governor of Tokyo)

Reading Time: 2 minutes近年、全世界的に少子化が進行している。子供は社会の宝であり、その笑顔は未来への希望である。だからこそ、今を生きる私たちが、確かな「戦略」と「意志」を持って、望む人が安心して子供を産み育て、子供が健やかに成長できる環境を整えることが重要だ。この考えは、OECDの取組の方向性とも軌を一にするものである。

東京都が2025年３月に策定した「2050東京戦略」では、戦略の第一に「チルドレンファースト」を掲げており、最優先で進めてきた。これらの取組が今、確実に実を結んできている。

From “Bonjour” to belonging: Paris’ Hypervoisins are showing the way

17 February 2026 Marion Lagadic - (OECD) and Patrick Bernard - (La République des Hyper Voisins)

Reading Time: 3 minutesHypervoisins demonstrates how community-based initiatives can enhance social cohesion and mitigate loneliness in urban settings. Through structured neighbourhood activities, shared spaces and peer support, residents develop stronger social networks and improve collective wellbeing. Could this model provide a scalable approach for other cities seeking to address social isolation and strengthen local community ties?

COGITO Talks… What in the World is the Tropical Economy?

05 February 2026 Ingo Plöger - (CEAL) and Betty-Ann Bryce - (OECD)

Reading Time: 11 minutesImagine a world where rural and tropical regions aren’t struggling backwaters, but breeding ground for fresh ideas, new jobs and sustainable growth.

In this episode of our #FromtheGroundUp series, Betty-Ann Bryce (OECD) sits down with Ingo Plöger (CEAL), for a conversation to explore how tropical regions, with abundant natural resources, rich biodiversity and favourable climate, can become engines of sustainable growth, innovation and resilient rural development.

COGITO Talks… Click, Vote, Grow: How India is “rural proofing” its future

03 February 2026 Shahid Iqbal Choudhary - (Indian Government) and Shayne MacLachlan - (OECD)

Reading Time: 12 minutesIndia’s rural areas are developing at an extraordinary rate, posing both challenges and opportunities to rethink development at a large scale. Recorded live from the OECD Rural Development Conference in Rio de Janeiro, Shayne MacLachlan speaks with Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, Secretary to the Government in the Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, about how India’s fascinating track-record of rural transformation can offer practical lessons to policymakers everywhere.

COGITO Talks… Lean on Me: Three pillars for rural prosperity

30 January 2026 Christos Kyrkoglou – (General Directorate for Monitoring and Implementation) and Vasiliki Pantelopoulou - (ESPA)

Reading Time: 9 minutesIn Greece, nearly a third of the population lives in rural areas, well above the OECD average, yet rural and urban communities remain deeply interconnected. From local partnerships to place-based investment, new approaches are reshaping how these spaces work together. What Greece teach us about building stronger rural-urban connections through integrated policy?

¿Cómo puede Colombia construir una sociedad del cuidado que funcione para las personas y los territorios?

29 January 2026 Natalia Moreno Salamanca - (Ministry of Equality and Equity of Colombia)

Reading Time: 4 minutesEn Colombia, más de 17 millones de personas, casi un tercio de la población, requieren cuidados o apoyo diario. Construir sistemas de cuidado sostenibles requiere coordinación entre sectores y niveles de gobierno, con base en principios de colaboración, descentralización y corresponsabilidad. Pero el esfuerzo vale la pena: garantizar el derecho al cuidado no es solo una obligación moral, sino un camino hacia comunidades más fuertes e inclusiva.

How can Colombia build a caring society that works for people and places?

28 January 2026 Natalia Moreno Salamanca - (Ministry of Equality and Equity of Colombia)

Reading Time: 3 minutesIn Colombia, more than 17 million people, nearly a third of the population, require daily care or support. Many of these children, adolescents, older adults, and people with disabilities are supported by more than 7 million unpaid caregivers. Building sustainable care systems requires coordination across sectors and levels of government, based on principles of collaboration, decentralisation, and shared responsibility.

COGITO Talks… Roots of Wisdom: Indigenous perspectives for policymakers

21 January 2026 Edson Krenak - (Cultural Survival) and Adwoa Serwaa Ofori - (University College Dublin)

Reading Time: 10 minutesThe 2025 OECD Report Reinforcing Rural Resilience reveals that OECD regions have seen a significant loss of forests, with approximately 10% of their forest cover disappearing between 2000 and 2020. To discuss solution-based approaches to this issue, we do not need to necessarily turn to new innovations or technologies, but rather we can look to past wisdom of indigenous knowledge in how to care for nature in a long-sustaining manner.

COGITO Talks… From vanishing villages to vital visions: The future of rural Kazakhstan

16 January 2026 Zhanerke Kochiigit - (Nazarbayev University)

Reading Time: 10 minutesIn 11 of the 29 OECD countries included in the OECD Reinforcing Rural Resilience report, rural populations are declining. Discussing all things decentralisation, digitalisation and democracy in Kazakhstan, Shayne MacLachlan from the OECD has a conversation with Zhanerke Kochiigit. This conversation took place at the 2025 OECD Latin American Rural Development Conference, Rural-Urban Connections: Pathways to Sustainable Development in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Have a listen.

Forging a child-friendly future for Tokyo

15 January 2026 Yuriko Koike - (Governor of Tokyo)

Reading Time: 4 minutesIn recent years, birth rates have been declining worldwide. But children are society’s treasure, and their radiant faces are hope for the future. That is why it is crucial for those of us here today to have a solid “strategy” and maintain a strong “will” to prepare an environment where those who wish to have and raise children can feel confident about doing so, and where children can grow up healthy and strong.

Greater Paris Metropolis: Powering the local digital transition

13 January 2026 Geoffroy Boulard - (17e Arrondissement)

Reading Time: 4 minutesFrance is now sixth in the European rankings of countries with the most smart cities – and the Greater Paris area is leading the charge. Innovation is no longer optional for municipalities facing complex social and environmental challenges. It is now essential for cities build on the lessons from early pilots and to deliver transformative long-term digital strategies for the benefit of all.

Métropole du Grand Paris : accélérer la transition numérique des territoires

13 January 2026 Geoffroy Boulard - (17e Arrondissement)

Reading Time: 4 minutesLa France occupe désormais la sixième place du classement européen des pays comptant le plus de villes intelligentes, et la région parisienne est en tête. Face à des défis sociaux et environnementaux complexes, l’innovation n’est plus une option pour les municipalités. Elle est devenue essentielle pour tirer les enseignements des premiers projets pilotes et mettre en œuvre des stratégies numériques transformatrices à long terme, au bénéfice de tous.

Tourism at a Turning Point: The Next Generation of Policy Making

07 January 2026 Sergio Guerreiro - (Turismo de Portugal)

Reading Time: 3 minutesTourism holds extraordinary potential as a catalyst for positive change. If driven by data, innovation and collaboration, it can strengthen communities, build more resilient economies and support healthier ecosystems. Tourism’s future, and its capacity to bring inclusive prosperity, rests on the ability to measure what matters, anticipate what is coming and act with purpose. Is the sector ready to do so?

Tackling tourism pressures: How Dubrovnik Became a Smart City Model

18 December 2025 Mato Franković - (Mayor of Dubrovnik)

Reading Time: 4 minutesOnly a decade ago, visitors were advised to avoid Dubrovnik during peak season due to near-continuous congestion in its narrow UNESCO-protected streets. Today, Dubrovnik stands as an emerging European model for sustainable, people-centred tourism. How can cities combine strategic governance, digital tools and community engagement to protect cultural heritage while ensuring a high quality of life for residents?

Distance makes the heart grow fonder: Can identities within diaspora revitalise rural regions from afar?

11 December 2025 Jack Waters - (OECD)

Reading Time: 3 minutesWhilst the strong emotional attachment to one’s home can be leveraged to bring back migrants that tackle skills gaps, diaspora populations that remain abroad can bring other benefits back home too. Engaging the diaspora should be understood as more than an effort to entice people to return home. Strong local identities endure long after migration, and policymakers can harness this attachment to mobilise skills, knowledge and investment from afar.

From empty desks to full homes: Can office conversions solve the housing crisis?

09 December 2025 Marie Cardwell de Bryas - (Stephen Taylor Architects)

Reading Time: 5 minutesIn the Paris region, over 5.6 million square meters of office space sit vacant. At the same time, demand for housing (especially social housing) has reached critical levels, with fourteen applications per allocation on average. This mismatch – between empty offices and overcrowded homes, raises important issues about how we can make better use of the built environment to meet urgent housing needs.

Reigniting investment: How SMEs can lead the way

04 December 2025 Gianluca Riccio - (BIAC)

Reading Time: 4 minutesSince the global financial crisis, business investment has struggled to recover, with real investment still 23% below its pre-2008 trend. The world isn’t short of good ideas or businesses, nor of finance. Yet the actual investment needed to fuel growth, jobs and the twin transitions continues to fall short. Can smarter policies on SME financing reignite investment and lead our economies to their best selves?

Why cities must build, not buy, the infrastructure of intelligence

02 December 2025 Anissa Arakal and Vilas Dhar - (Patrick J. McGovern Foundation)

Reading Time: 4 minutesAcross the world, cities are quietly delegating the details of daily life to new artificial intelligence (AI) systems that make data driven recommendations about how resources and priorities are distributed. What begins as a promise of efficiency can also quietly define the invisible architecture of who controls public life. The work ahead calls for civic imagination and for ambitious leaders who can link algorithms to accountability.

From informality to inclusion: Sharing Latin America’s rural resources

27 November 2025 Roxana Glavanov - (OECD) and Amal Chevreau - (OECD)

Reading Time: 4 minutesLatin America’s rural communities produce much of the food, energy and minerals the world depends on. Yet for many rural residents, the promise of lasting prosperity often remains out of reach – because despite this wealth, insecure and informal work is widespread, undermining livelihoods, services, and long-term opportunity. But with the right tools and trust in place, rural regions can move from informality to inclusion.

COGITO Talks… La République des Hyper Voisins

26 November 2025 Amal Chevreau - (OECD), Marion Lagadic - (OECD) and Patrick Bernard - (La République des Hyper Voisins)

Reading Time: 21 minutesThis conversation dives into how a small gathering in a local restaurant blossomed into a powerful neighbourhood network grounded in trust, conviviality, and mutual support. From organising a 1 500-person street banquet to creating WhatsApp groups that connect thousands of residents, Patrick and Marion share how intentional social ties can strengthen safety, wellbeing, and even help older neighbours remain in their homes.

On the Edge: Will AI Unlock or Undermine Youth Entrepreneurship?

25 November 2025 Wanda Brandt - (YBI)

Reading Time: 4 minutesAround the world, young entrepreneurs are showing that AI can be a technological and entrepreneurial revolution. By automating the mundane, amplifying creativity, and expanding access to knowledge, AI gives young founders the tools to build more resilient, innovative, and growth-ready businesses. With the right support today, AI can help unlock a future where every young entrepreneur has the tools and confidence to shape the economy of tomorrow.

Rethinking rural realities: what the challenges are and where the opportunities lie

21 November 2025 Dorothée Allain-Dupré - (OECD)

Reading Time: 5 minutesIn the popular mindset, rural regions often conjure up images of dereliction and decline. Yet this is far from the reality. Rural areas are home to 30% of the OECD population and in some cases are outpacing cities in growth, productivity, and innovation. Why then do outdated narratives of rural decline continue to overshadow their contributions? It is time to dismantle the myths holding these regions back.

From roots to returns: engaging diasporas to tackle skills gaps

20 November 2025 Margaux Tharaux - (OECD)

Reading Time: 4 minutesAcross the OECD, regions are scrambling for the skills needed to boost regional prosperity. For many, mobilising diaspora communities could help bolster the workforce, investment, and civic energy. Pairing quick fixes and core place-based investments in attractiveness factors like housing and public services can turn attachment into arrivals and long-term retention. The time is right: the pool of potential returners is large, and we are getting a handle on what works. Regions should act now to convert existing attachment into renewed demographic and socio-economic vitality.

No more paper work: how reducing red tape can boost businesses in regions

17 November 2025 Alexandra Rusu - (OECD)

Reading Time: 4 minutesReducing red tape and administrative burdens is not just a matter of convenience. It is a vital step towards encouraging business creation, innovation, and competition, for a more productive and prosperous future. Simplifying rules, digitising services and working across levels of government can unlock the potential of local businesses – whether they are launching tech startups or providing care services. How can we avoid suffocating our SMEs through red tape?

Europe’s leaky bucket: Why my generation’s founders are leaving

12 November 2025 Adrian Davies - (Meshara)

Reading Time: 4 minutesEurope has a ‘leaky bucket’ issue when it comes to nurturing young entrepreneurial talent. There is no lack in their production, but their retention is an issue. This phenomenon explains what the OECD calls the ”Missing Entrepreneurs” – the cohort of 812 000 potential young founders accounting for 11% of total untapped entrepreneurial potential. So, how do we move forward to a more promising future?

Das Leck in Europas Talentpool: Warum die jungen Unternehmerinnen und Unternehmer meiner Generation abwandern

12 November 2025 Adrian Davies - (Meshara)

Reading Time: 5 minutesEuropa hat ein „Leck am Eimer“, wenn es um die Förderung junger Unternehmertalente geht. An Nachwuchs mangelt es nicht, doch die Entwicklung und Förderung dieser Talente scheitert kläglich. Dieses Phänomen erklärt, was die OECD als die „fehlenden Unternehmer“ bezeichnet – eine Gruppe von 812.000 potenziellen jungen Gründern, die 11 % des gesamten ungenutzten unternehmerischen Potenzials ausmachen. Was ist also die Ursache des Problems und wie können wir eine vielversprechendere Zukunft gestalten?

COGITO Talks… Youth entrepreneurs uncovered: Dare to dream – YEPA panel special

10 November 2025 Adrian Davies - (Meshara), Elina Cohen-Peirano - (Urone) and Mateo de Bardeci - (DeepPsy AG)

Reading Time: 10 minutesRecorded during the youth entrepreneurship policy academy (YEPA) Summit in Brussels, this session captures YEPA’s mission through an inspiring panel of three young entrepreneurs who share their journeys – including the highs, hurdles, and lessons learned. The discussion is moderated by Baptiste Mandouze, Social Economy Policy Officer at the European Commission, and features Adrian Davies, Elina Cohen-Periano, and Mateo de Bardeci. Let’s dive in and hear their stories.

Is UK devolution delivering?

06 November 2025 Alan Harding - (GMCA) and Dr. Sian Peake-Jones - (University of Manchester)

Reading Time: 3 minutesGreater Manchester has recently outpaced London in productivity growth – a surprising shift that’s prompting many to ask: Is this the long-awaited “devolution dividend”? And could it finally help close the UK’s deep economic divides? Our recent study for the Manchester-based Productivity Institute suggests that advances in data science make it possible to identify a “sweet spot” in subnational government design. We must find it.

第二の都市について互いに学びあう：イギリスと日本における地方分権からの知見

31 October 2025 Jeffrey Matsu - (CIPFA)

Reading Time: < 1 minute先進国の多くでは、国内の地域格差が拡大している現実が、全国平均の統計値の裏に隠れてしまっている。大都市圏が急速に成長する一方で、多くの中小都市や地方部はその歩みに追いつけずにいる。わたしたちCIPFAとバーミンガム大学City-REDI （City-Region Economic Development Institute：都市地域経済開発研究所）による最新の英日共同研究（日本語版報告書）は、この課題に真正面から取り組み、イギリスの「第二の都市」バーミンガム（およびウェスト・

Concrétiser le droit de rester : leçons des villes qui ont inversé le déclin

30 October 2025 Elizabeth Doherty - (OECD)

Reading Time: 5 minutesAu cours des quinze dernières années, la population vivant dans les zones urbaines de l’Union européenne a augmenté de près de 12 millions de personnes. Dans un contexte d’urbanisation, une telle tendance n’a rien de surprenant. Mais sous la surface se cache une réalité plus complexe : toutes les villes ne profitent pas de cette croissance. Concrétiser le droit de rester suppose des politiques qui rééquilibrent la prospérité.

COGITO Talks… Youth entrepreneurs uncovered: Joni Rakipi, in his own words

30 October 2025 Shayne MacLachlan - (OECD) and Joni Rakipi - (ETH Zürich)

Reading Time: 9 minutesThis episode of OECD podcast features Joni Rakipi from ETH Zürich and is hosted by Shayne MacLachlan from the CFE. Joni, originally from Albania and now based in Zürich, explains deeptech as solving complex problems through scientific breakthroughs, emphasising its long-term impact. He highlights barriers young entrepreneurs face, such as limited access for foreign nationals and regulatory hurdles, advocating for open doors and deregulation to foster innovation.

The shifting winds of work: Can regions keep up?

28 October 2025 Cem Özgüzel - (OECD) and Patricia Peñalosa - (OECD)

Reading Time: 3 minutesPowerful forces are reshaping the world of work. Ageing populations, the transition to green energy, rapid digitalisation, and uneven connectivity are already redrawing the economic landscape. AI tools promise a way out – automating routine tasks, optimising schedules, even predicting maintenance needs before breakdowns. But for local leaders, a dilemma looms: will AI ease labour shortages or put people out of work – and their region?

COGITO Talks… Youth entrepreneurs uncovered: Elina Cohen-Peirano, in her own words

27 October 2025 Alix Philouze - (OECD) and Elina Cohen-Peirano - (Urone)

Reading Time: 10 minutesIn this episode of OECD podcasts, Alix Philouze chats to Elina Cohen-Peirano, CEO & founder of URONE and a young entrepreneur who founded her first company at the age of 17. They discuss all things youth entrepreneurship – from balancing entrepreneurship and studies to the policy challenges facing youth entrepreneurship and the legacy of the YEPA programme, tune in to hear from a young entrepreneur, in her own words.

Unlocking the right to stay: Lessons from cities that reversed decline

24 October 2025 Elizabeth Doherty - (OECD)

Reading Time: 4 minutesOver the past 15 years, Europe’s cities have grown by nearly 12 million people. Yet while Europe’s large cities have expanded by around 6.5%, smaller cities have shrunk by 1.7%. Western cities have been generally growing, while many in Eastern Europe are losing residents. This uneven growth raises an important question – what does it mean to have the Right to Stay in Europe’s shrinking cities?

Second cities, shared lessons: Insights from UK–Japan devolution

22 October 2025 Jeffrey Matsu - (CIPFA)

Reading Time: 4 minutesBig metros power ahead while many towns and smaller regions struggle to keep up. A recent UK-Japan study, looks squarely at this problem through two ‘second city’ regions – Birmingham/the West Midlands and Osaka/Kansai – and distils a practical playbook that local leaders can use now. The argument is simple: finds durable institutions, functional regional geographies, flexible finance, and open learning loops are the levers that turn strategy into outcomes.

Moving more: the OECD can’t afford not to

17 October 2025 Sam Bacon

Reading Time: 5 minutesPhysical activity is far more than a personal health choice; it’s a powerful tool for improving public health, economic productivity, and social wellbeing. Despite strong evidence that investing in movement yields major health and economic returns, inactivity rates remain high across OECD countries. Successful interventions, such as the JU:MP programme in Bradford, demonstrate that community-driven, place-based approaches are far more effective in encouraging sustained movement.

When density pays back: Using densification to finance social housing in São Paulo

10 October 2025 Thomas Kergonou Jimenez - (OECD)

Reading Time: 3 minutesOver the last decade, housing costs in big cities soared by 68% – far higher than in smaller cities or rural areas – stretching household budgets, and pricing young people and families out of urban centres. São Paulo offers a glimpse of what’s possible when cities use densification not just to build higher, but to build fairer. Can São Paulo’s new approach show the way for other cities?

Italy’s next wave: Creating purpose-driven entrepreneurs

09 October 2025 Italian Ministry of Universities and Research (MUR)

Reading Time: 3 minutesItaly has always been a land of entrepreneurs. SMEs are crucial to the economic growth of Italy, accounting for around 80% of employment and generating more than 65% of the nation’s added value.  But what about the next generation? How are Italian universities preparing young people to innovate? How are they training entrepreneurs to align economic goals with social and environmental responsibility? What is Italy’s next step?

The green transition of SMEs: A tale from Portugal’s textile and clothing industry

26 September 2025 Marco Marchese - (OECD) and António Braz Costa - (CITEVE and CeNTI)

Reading Time: 4 minutesPortugal shows that the green transition in textiles is both a climate imperative and a business opportunity to reshape production, secure jobs, and meet global demand for sustainable fashion. With SMEs at the core, progress must come from the bottom up, backed by coherent top-down policies. As the fashion cycle accelerates, so too does its environmental footprint – and the need to change our approach.

Unlocking youth potential: Creating a future that feels possible

24 September 2025 María Camila Páez - (OECD Youthwise)

Reading Time: 3 minutesIn OECD countries, around 1 in 8 young people fall between the two and become “NEETs” – those neither working, studying, nor receiving training. In Latin America, it is 1 in 4 young people. But NEETs are not just a problem. They represent an opportunity – a vast pool of talent, full of skills and enthusiasm. With the right support, they can become a powerful and positive force for change.

Agentic AI for Small Business Growth 

16 September 2025 Richard Nash - (PayPal)

Reading Time: 4 minutesPredictive AI has served SMEs well, offering insights through data analysis and pattern recognition. However, Agentic AI goes further.

Rural renewal: Lessons from the Loire and beyond

16 September 2025 John Austin - (EI)

Reading Time: 4 minutesHow can France’s Loire Valley, long known for castles and wine, offer lessons for rural renewal today? Communities are turning heritage, agriculture, and local leadership into engines of social and economic revival with relevance far beyond the region.

Paris&Co : L’innovation territoriale au service d’un futur durable

15 September 2025 Pierre Begou (Paris&Co)

Reading Time: 4 minutesComment les villes peuvent-elles bâtir un écosystème entrepreneurial qui soutient une croissance à la fois durable, inclusive et locale ? Paris est un bon exemple.

Soluciones basadas en la naturaleza: Acción local para un cambio duradero

12 September 2025 Alejandro González (ICLEI Colombia), Sergio Aranguren (ICLEI Colombia), Luz Camacho (ICLEI Colombia), Nathalia Correa Giraldo (ICLEI Colombia) and Melissa Velásquez Zuleta (ICLEI Colombia)

Reading Time: 4 minutesDe acuerdo con la UICN las Soluciones basadas en la Naturaleza (SbN) son intervenciones que protegen, gestionan y restauran ecosistemas naturales o modificados, abordando desafíos

Nature-based solutions: Local action for lasting change

12 September 2025 Alejandro González (ICLEI Colombia), Sergio Aranguren, Luz Camacho (ICLEI Colombia), Nathalia Correa Giraldo (ICLEI Colombia) and Melissa Velásquez Zuleta (ICLEI Colombia)

Reading Time: 3 minutesNature-based Solutions (NbS) have the potential to mitigate up to 10 gigatonnes of CO₂ per year – about 27% of global annual emissions. As climate

Paris&Co: Territorial innovation for a sustainable future

11 September 2025 Pierre Begou (Paris&Co)

Reading Time: 4 minutesParis is going beyond the basics to harness innovation and power not just startups but the future of entire cities.

Planning for Play: Designing Urban Space to Welcome Back Families

25 August 2025 Marie Cardwell de Bryas - (Stephen Taylor Architects) and Elizabeth Doherty - (OECD)

Reading Time: 4 minutesChildren are disappearing from city centres. Between 2018 and 2023, 19 out of 30 European capitals saw the share of the population aged 0-14 decline

Tecnología e innovación para acelerar el impacto social: el rol de los territorios transformando la educación en Colombia

14 August 2025 Cristina Gutiérrez de Piñeres Scarpetta - (United Way)

Reading Time: 3 minutesLa innovación y la tecnología, guiadas por la evidencia y el trabajo colaborativo, se han consolidado en Colombia como catalizadores clave para la transformación social

Technology and Innovation to Accelerate Social Impact: The Role of Local Territories in Transforming Education in Colombia

14 August 2025 Cristina Gutiérrez de Piñeres Scarpetta - (United Way)

Reading Time: 3 minutesHow can data and local collaboration transform education? United Way Colombia is showing that when communities, innovation, and evidence come together, impact becomes not just possible, but measurable and scalable.

The drivers, distribution and direction of place-based productivity

08 August 2025 James Wilson (Orkestra-Basque Institute of Competitiveness), Juan Gamboa (Orkestra-Basque Institute of Competitiveness), Cristina Múgica (Bizkaia Provincial Council) and Garbiñe Manterola Agirrezabalaga

Reading Time: < 1 minuteProductivity is central to understanding economic success as it defines what outcomes can be achieved from a given set of resources. As such we are

Partnerships that work: Local alliances for inclusive economy in Central America

18 July 2025 Agnieszka Raczynska (Fundación Avina) and Jimena Reyeros (Fundación Avina)

Reading Time: 5 minutesEach year, many Central American migrants return to the same challenges they left behind: scarce jobs, limited prospects and exclusion. But in parts of Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador, local actors are helping turn return into a fresh start.

Tradition meets tech: How digital tools are transforming tourism in Italy

16 July 2025 The Ministry of Tourism in Italy

Reading Time: 4 minutesItaly’s tourism sector is undergoing a quiet revolution. From AI-powered hospitality to immersive virtual experiences, small businesses are embracing digital tools to enhance authenticity, boost resilience, and connect more meaningfully with travellers.

Still making waves: What have 10 years of the OECD Principles on Water Governance taught us?

08 July 2025 Barbara Pompili (French Ambassador for the Environment)

Reading Time: 3 minutesA decade after their launch, the OECD Principles on Water Governance remain more relevant than ever. With floods, droughts and water demand rising, the world doesn’t just need more pipes, it needs smarter policies

The politics of the paddock: what Clarkson’s Farm can teach us about agriculture and rural resilience

04 July 2025 Shayne MacLachlan - (OECD) and Bridget Donovan - (OECD)

Reading Time: 4 minutesBehind the humour and chaos of Clarkson’s Farm lies a serious story of rural struggle and resilience. This blog explores what it reveals, and what policy makers can learn about diversification, perception, and place-based solutions.

Can local leadership revive left-behind regions?

03 July 2025 John Austin - (EI)

Reading Time: 4 minutesIn struggling regions, feelings of alienation are growing. Recovery depends on tapping into local identity and pride, with place-based strategies that rebuild trust and opportunity. Long-term support is key to reconnecting communities to the economy and democracy.

How can small businesses thrive in a world of trade disruption?

26 June 2025 Zofia Polakiewicz (OECD)

Reading Time: 3 minutesSmall businesses face significant challenges amid rising tariffs and changing trade dynamics, often suffering more than larger firms. Governments are introducing support measures and SME-focused trade agreements to enhance their participation in global and local markets.

Trust in action: The Hague’s efforts to re-engage its citizens

20 June 2025 Jan van Zanen - (Mayor of The Hague)

Reading Time: 4 minutesIn today’s complex world, trust in government is more crucial than ever. At last year’s UCLG World Council, I introduced the “Hague Charter for Municipal

Life at the frontier: How Finland’s shrinking border regions are adapting and advancing

18 June 2025 Antti Moisio - (OECD)

Reading Time: 4 minutesShrinking doesn’t have to mean failing. Finland’s border regions are showing that a new story is possible – and it’s one well worth watching.

It’s time to recognise rural regions’ strengths

12 June 2025 Bridget Donovan - (OECD)

Reading Time: 3 minutesRural areas are revitalizing through green and digital transitions, contributing significantly to renewable energy and advanced manufacturing. Tailored policies, community engagement, and improved services are essential for maximising their potential in economic growth and resilience.

Tourism: What can we learn from the 2025 power blackout in Spain?

10 June 2025 Julie Reimann - (OECD)

Reading Time: 4 minutesA massive power outage on 28 April left millions in Spain and Portugal without electricity, impacting tourism and the economy significantly. This event underscores the vulnerability of tourism amidst crises, highlighting the need for robust infrastructure and emergency preparedness strategies.

Circular cities – making progress or going round in circles?

05 June 2025 Jocelyn Blériot - (Ellen MacArthur Foundation)

Reading Time: 4 minutesCities are pivotal in the shift toward a circular economy, demonstrating immense potential in resource efficiency and innovation. They are leading initiatives, reducing waste, creating jobs, and require national support to enhance their efforts and maximize circular solutions globally.

Gaziantep’s great migration

03 June 2025 Fatma Şahin - (Mayor)

Reading Time: 5 minutesThe world’s population is expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050 and 10.2 billion by 2100. Many of these people will be on the move – pulled to new places by economic opportunity or pushed by conflicts, scarcity and a changing climate. For years, Gaziantep has been working on the front lines to support Syrian refugees. The lessons we have learned can help all cities prepare for the future.

Cleaning up our act: How Sofia is transforming waste management

28 May 2025 Vasil Terziev - (Mayor)

Reading Time: 3 minutesSofia’s waste management reform focuses on improving disposal options, enhancing public engagement, and enforcing regulations. Initiatives include pop-up collection points and partnerships with residents, schools, and businesses, aiming to create a cleaner, more sustainable city for all.

スマートシティ実現に向けた産学官共創の仕組み

27 May 2025 郡和子（仙台市長）

Reading Time: < 1 minute仙台市は、東北大学や約70の企業・団体と連携し、スマートシティの実現に向けた取り組みを進めています。市民ニーズに基づく新たなサービスを創出し、地域の課題に対応する具体例を示しました。

Jyväskylä’s journey to a circular economy

26 May 2025 Timo Koivisto - (Mayor)

Reading Time: 4 minutesSustainability is integral to Finland, where nature is ever-present. Climate action is a priority and lies at the heart of the City of Jyväskylä’s vision for the future. Achieving this vision requires a circular economy approach across all sectors. How can we make this a reality?

Turin 2.0: Putting our city at the centre of national competitiveness

22 May 2025 Stefano Lo Russo, Ph.D - (Mayor)

Reading Time: 3 minutesCities are crucial for national competitiveness. Turin is exemplifying this by integrating its industrial heritage with emerging sectors. Investing in people and education fosters innovation and a long-term strategy focusing on urban regeneration, sustainability, and inclusivity will prepare cities like Turin for future challenges.

Power in partnership: How Poland is implementing multi-level governance

16 May 2025 Katarzyna Pełczyńska-Nałęcz - Minister of Development Funds and Regional Policy

Reading Time: 4 minutesIn 2023 subnational governments across the OECD countries spent USD 13 trillion. But to get best value from this spending it needs to be aligned with the efforts of government and public agencies. A multilevel governance (MLG) approach seeks to achieve that. What lessons can countries learn from Poland’s experience?

How can digital twins transform our cities? A view from Japan

15 May 2025 Akira Yoshii - (Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan)

Reading Time: 3 minutesJapan’s urban digital twin initiative, PLATEAU, creates dynamic 3D city models using data to enhance urban planning and governance. Launched in 2020, it supports over 250 municipalities, aiming for expansion to 500 by 2027.

Stronger places for competitive countries

15 May 2025 Matúš Vallo - (Mayor)

Reading Time: 3 minutesMayors have faced numerous global challenges, yet these have opened opportunities for deeper connections with citizens. They urge national governments to embrace place-based policies, emphasising their significance in addressing regional needs, ensuring a just transition, and fostering resilience and prosperity for all.

Avances y desafíos de la informalidad laboral en Colombia

14 May 2025 Andrea Otero - (Banco de la República) and Jaime Bonet - (Banco de la República)

Reading Time: 5 minutesEn Colombia, la mayoría de los trabajadores no recibe un comprobante de pago formal ni cotiza para una pensión. En 2024, el 55,4% de la fuerza laboral se encontraba en empleos informales, ganándose la vida en trabajos sin contrato laboral formal, sin protecciones legales ni acceso a la seguridad social.

Can Colombia turn the corner on informal work?

14 May 2025 Andrea Otero - (Banco de la República) and Jaime Bonet - (Banco de la República)

Reading Time: 4 minutesIn Colombia, most workers don’t get a formal payslip or a pension. In 2024, 55.4% of the workforce were in informal employment – earning their living in jobs without a formal job contract, legal protections or contribute to social security.

AI in Busan: Can it reshape urban life?

12 May 2025 Heong-joon Park - (Mayor)

Reading Time: 3 minutesBy 2030, AI is projected to contribute USD 19.9 trillion to the global economy. Busan, Korea’s second-largest city, is embracing AI through a master plan aimed at enhancing public services and fostering economic growth.

Can Tsukuba solve Japan’s biggest challenges?

09 May 2025 Tatsuo Igarashi - (Mayor)

Reading Time: 4 minutesTsukuba aims to be a leading city of the future, effectively managing Japan’s population decline by leveraging its research strengths and appeal. With advancements like generative AI and a focus on inclusivity, it addresses ageing challenges and enhances resident engagement. Tsukuba’s innovations position it as a model for sustainable urban development globally.

COGITO Talks… Power Shift: When First Nations Lead the Future

28 April 2025 Mark Podlasly - (FMNPC) and Sinead Teevan - (OECD)

Reading Time: < 1 minuteWhat happens when First Nations take the lead in shaping the future of clean energy and infrastructure in Indigenous communities? In this episode, we hear from Mark Podlasly, CEO of the First Nations Major Projects Coalition (FNMPC) and member of the Nlaka’pamux Nation in British Columbia.

COGITO Talks… From the 15-minute city to the 30-minute region: Rethinking how we live and connect

25 April 2025 Carlos Moreno - (Panthéon-Sorbonne) and Soo-Jin Kim - (OECD)

Reading Time: < 1 minuteProfessor Carlos Moreno – creator of the “15-minute city” and now a leading voice behind the “30-minute region” – joins the OECD’s Soo-Jin Kim to explore how we can build more inclusive, connected and resilient places.

Cities leading the way in the quest for better buildings

25 April 2025 Marie Hanagata - (OECD)

Reading Time: 3 minutesThe building sector is responsible for a staggering 10 gigatonnes of CO2 emissions annually – 37% of global energy and process-related emissions. We need to slash that number over the next decade. It’s time for low carbon construction. Can cities make it a reality?

Winning cities in the war for talent

22 April 2025 Carlos Moedas - (Mayor) and Dr. Parag Khanna - (AlphaGeo)

Reading Time: 4 minutesCities must adapt continually to retain and attract talent amidst global uncertainty. Lisbon is using tech innovation and cultural vibrancy to attract mobile talent.

Una comuna que madura: cómo Maipú se adapta al envejecimiento de su población

17 April 2025 Tomás Vodanovic Escudero - (Mayor)

Reading Time: 4 minutesChile, al igual que gran parte del mundo, está experimentando una profunda transformación demográfica, con una drástica caída en las tasas de natalidad y un aumento en la esperanza de vida. En Maipú, Chile, los líderes locales destacan la importancia de una planificación urbana y una gobernanza adaptadas a las personas mayores.

A Maturing Maipú: How the Chilean city is adapting to an ageing population

17 April 2025 Tomás Vodanovic Escudero - (Mayor)

Reading Time: 4 minutesChile, like much of the world, is undergoing a profound demographic shift, as birth rates plummet and life expectancy soars. In Maipú, Chile, local leaders emphasize the importance of city planning and governance tailored for older residents.

Why we need an innovative approach to regional development

07 April 2025 Stephane Pronovost - (CanNor), Juste Rajaonson - (UQAM) and Pier-Olivier Poulin - (Ville de Montréal)

Reading Time: 4 minutesGovernments around the world spend billions every year supporting innovation. Their investments generate breakthroughs that power economic and social progress. But are their investments in innovation reaching the places that need it most?

SME finance in uncertain times: Forging a path to resilience

02 April 2025 Miriam Koreen - (OECD) and Maria Camila Jimenez - (OECD)

Reading Time: 3 minutesSMEs and entrepreneurs are at an important crossroads. Recent challenges like pandemic shutdowns, high inflation, and rising interest rates persist, keeping financing conditions tight. As uncertainty grows, businesses and governments must choose: halt investments at the risk of innovation and competitiveness or find new ways to access capital.

Can distressed communities fuel national competitiveness?

24 March 2025 Tim Bartik - (Upjohn Institute for Employment Research)

Reading Time: 4 minutesOver 30% of Americans live in economically distressed local labour markets. With the right policies, these distressed local labour markets can be boosted to higher employment rates at a reasonable cost per job. Such policies would not only help these local labour markets, but also boost the national economy.

COGITO Talks… Winners without medals: The legacy of volunteers

10 March 2025 Shayne MacLachlan - (OECD), Betty-Ann Bryce - (OECD) and Max Jablonowski - (OECD)

Reading Time: < 1 minuteVolunteers are the beating heart of any event, from the Olympics to your local school sports day. But beyond the medals and podiums, what impact does volunteering have on individuals, communities, and the broader economy?

Can Special Economic Zones spur regional attractiveness?

28 February 2025 Michael Flood - (OECD), Giovanni Pagano - (OECD) and Ewa Białogłowska - (OECD)

Reading Time: 5 minutesSpecial Economic Zones (SEZs) have evolved beyond tax incentives to boost regional growth, focusing on infrastructure, digital connectivity, and talent. From Ireland’s Shannon Free Zone to China’s industrial hubs, their success hinges on strong governance and a place-sensitive approach. The challenge now is ensuring SEZs drive inclusive regional development.

Assets to Ashes: Counting the Cost of Wildfires in OECD Countries

25 February 2025 David Freshwater - (UK/UKY)

Reading Time: 5 minutesIn January 2025, Los Angeles wildfires caused 25 deaths and $250 billion in damages, marking the most destructive fire in history. Wildfires increasingly threaten urban areas, driven by human behaviour and climate change, necessitating improved prevention efforts.

How geospatial data can unlock value from critical raw materials

13 February 2025 Claudia Baranzelli - (OECD)

Reading Time: 3 minutesThe global demand for critical raw materials is surging, with rare earth metals and lithium expected to increase significantly by 2030 and 2050. Learn how geospatial data can aid local governments in balancing economic growth with environmental risks amid this transition.

The AI race is on: Businesses and regions off the blocks

11 February 2025 Sandrine Kergroach - (OECD) and Julien Héritier - (mc2i)

Reading Time: 4 minutesIn 2024, AI usage surged in the EU27, with 13.5% of enterprises adopting it, spurred by accessible generative AI. However, disparities emerge as some firms and regions advance while others lag, raising concerns over increasing digital divides.

COGITO Talks… L’emploi à l’ère de l’IA générative : une opportunité pour tous et partout ? avec Eric Pérès

10 February 2025 Eric Pérès - (FO-Cadres)

Reading Time: < 1 minuteL’intelligence artificielle générative augmente la productivité et aide à résoudre les pénuries de main-d’œuvre, mais accentue la fracture numérique entre urbain et rural.

Can services stop places shrinking?

03 February 2025 Bernhard Nöbauer - (OECD), Ana Moreno Monroy - (OECD) and Marc Bournisien de Valmont - (OECD)

Reading Time: 3 minutesRural areas face population decline, straining local services. Regional centres can enhance service efficiency, but many still decline. Emphasising accessible services, digital solutions, and improved transport can help maintain community vitality amid demographic changes.

Making the connection: the uneven geography of urban mobility

03 February 2025 Ana Moreno Monroy - (OECD) and Marcos Díaz Ramírez - (OECD)

Reading Time: 3 minutesCities heavily rely on connectivity for residents’ access to jobs, healthcare, and education. However, urban mobility varies significantly, with disparities in public transport access and essential services, particularly affecting low-income and suburban populations.

The dilemma of an entrepreneur: Balancing passion and well-being

30 January 2025 Johan Wiklund - (Whitman School of Management) and Ute Stephan - (King's College London)

Reading Time: 4 minutesEntrepreneurs can experience a mix of exhilaration and stress due to the nature of their work. Learn how policymakers can help these individuals thrive through supporting their well-being and encouraging their success.

How Malmö Developed a Thriving Startup Community: Lessons from Minc’s Journey

27 January 2025 Daniel Persson - (Minc)

Reading Time: 4 minutesMalmö, Sweden, transformed from deindustrialization to a vibrant tech hub through innovation and inclusivity. Minc plays a crucial role in supporting startups, showcasing successful collaboration, funding access, and community diversity as keys to economic growth.

If music be the source of growth, play on

23 January 2025 Shain Shapiro - (Sound Diplomacy)

Reading Time: 3 minutesOver the next decade, 1.2 billion young people in emerging countries, especially Africa, face job scarcity. The thriving global music industry presents an economic opportunity, yet many nations ignore its potential for job creation and revenue growth.

Youth at the helm: Can young people shape the twin transitions?

20 January 2025 Hjalte Jørgensen - (Youth Climate Council)

Reading Time: 4 minutesThe green and digital transitions require youth empowerment to address urgent ecological and technological challenges. Young voices bring creativity, urgency, and fresh perspectives, essential for shaping policies and fostering innovative solutions for a sustainable future.

Réconcilier territoires et bassins de vie : une réforme nécessaire

16 January 2025 Jean Coldefy - (ATEC ITS France) and Jaques Lévy

Reading Time: 3 minutesLa structure territoriale fragmentée de la France est inadaptée aux réalités modernes. Découvrez une proposition de réforme audacieuse qui aligne la gouvernance sur 900 bassins de vie, ce qui est essentiel pour résoudre efficacement et équitablement les problèmes de logement, de mobilité et de démocratie locale.

Perspektiven nach der Entlassung: Wie öffentliche Politikmaßnahmen Arbeitnehmer*innen helfen können

13 January 2025 Giuseppe Cappellari - (University of Hohenheim), Carlo Menon - (OECD) and Wessel Vermeulen - (OECD)

Reading Time: 3 minutesMassenentlassungen zerstören Gemeinden, können aber mit den richtigen Maßnahmen auch zu einer Erneuerung führen. Erfahren Sie, wie Strategien wie Diversifizierung, Umschulung und gezielte Unterstützung – wie in Oulu nach dem Niedergang von Nokia – den Arbeitnehmern helfen, sich umzustellen und die lokale Wirtschaft wieder aufzubauen.

Life after layoffs: how public policies can help workers move on

13 January 2025 Giuseppe Cappellari - (University of Hohenheim), Carlo Menon - (OECD) and Wessel Vermeulen - (OECD)

Reading Time: 4 minutesMass layoffs devastate communities but can also spark renewal with the right policies. Learn how strategies like diversification, retraining, and targeted support, as seen in Oulu’s recovery after Nokia’s decline, help workers transition and rebuild local economies.

Charting collaboration for a smarter Sendai

08 January 2025 Kazuko Kohri - (Mayor)

Reading Time: 3 minutesLearn how Sendai aims to become a leading smart city by leveraging technology for daily life improvements and resilience. See how they are collaborating with Tohoku University among other organisations on innovative projects.

De la sequía al diluvio: Enfrentando inundaciones catastróficas en Valencia, España

24 December 2024 Ambassador Ximo Puig - (OECD)

Reading Time: 4 minutesLa calamidad en Valencia subraya una realidad impactante: invertir en resiliencia climática es una cuestión de vida o muerte. Nos hemos acostumbrado a ver tormentas tropicales y huracanes en América, Asia-Pacífico y el Caribe acaparando titulares. Pero la llamada “gota fría” en la región de Valencia, España, nos tomó por sorpresa.

From drought to deluge: Dealing with disastrous floods in Valencia, Spain

20 December 2024 Ambassador Ximo Puig - (OECD)

Reading Time: 3 minutesThe disaster in Valencia highlights the urgent need for investment in climate resilience. Learn how effective infrastructure and proactive measures are crucial to mitigating future risks.

Can social capital save places?

18 December 2024 Ben Speggen - (JES)

Reading Time: 3 minutesRevitalising communities requires attention to social capital alongside physical infrastructure. Learn how trust and collaboration drive civic engagement – essential for overcoming contemporary crises.

Simplifying sustainability: How streamlining reporting can help SMEs go green

17 December 2024 Marija Kuzmanovic - (OECD)

Reading Time: 3 minutesSustainability reporting poses challenges for SMEs, hindering their green transition. To overcome this, accessible tools and simplified frameworks are needed, enabling SMEs to effectively demonstrate their sustainability performance and access green financing opportunities.

How Climate Change is Reshaping our Regions

05 December 2024 Claudia Baranzelli - (OECD) and Alexandre Banquet - (OECD)

Reading Time: 4 minutes2024 is projected to be the hottest year on record, surpassing 1.5 degrees Celsius of warming above pre-industrial levels. Urgent action is required to address climate risks, particularly in vulnerable polar and tropical regions, to mitigate severe impacts.

Town centre shopping at a crossroads: exploring (green and digital) avenues for reinvention 

29 November 2024 Lukas Kammerer - (OECD)

Reading Time: 4 minutesTown centres face significant challenges from online competition and economic pressures, yet local SMEs remain vital. Hybrid retail models and community-focused strategies can foster resilience, encouraging consumers to support local businesses and enhancing urban sustainability.

Cogito Talks… Breaking barriers to the labour market for women with Yalla Trappan

31 October 2024 Frida Grundahl - (Yalla Trappan)

Reading Time: < 1 minuteLearn about Yalla Trappan, a social enterprise empowering foreign-born women in Sweden through job opportunities and financial independence to reduce social isolation.

Cogito Talks… Shaping tomorrow’s cities with Urban Partners

31 October 2024 Jesse Shapins - (Urban Partners)

Reading Time: < 1 minuteWith Urban Partners, learn about the intersection between investment management and local and national projects promoting climate and social sustainability, emphasizing inclusive investment and the importance of thriving communities.

Keeping the lights on: what Europe can learn from Nordic regions about managing shrinking populations

30 October 2024 Antti Moisio - (OECD) and Margaux Vincent - (OECD)

Reading Time: 3 minutesAs OECD and EU regions anticipate significant population declines, local governments must adapt to maintain essential services. Nordic countries have effectively used inter-municipal cooperation (IMC) to share resources, manage costs, and ensure quality service delivery amid shrinking populations.

Shared effort needed to save democracy

11 October 2024 John Austin - (EI)

Reading Time: 2 minutes2024 is a pivotal year for democracies in more ways than one. Mounting economic inequities are threatening democracies and these threats can only be mitigated by an “urgent and focused” shared effort.

The twin transition: How are regions adapting to changing labour market and skills demands?

09 October 2024 Laurenz Baertsch - (OECD) and Patricia Peñalosa - (OECD)

Reading Time: 4 minutesThe twin transition alters labor markets, necessitating new skills and job creation. Learn how some regions adapt uniquely, leveraging strengths to address challenges such as skill gaps, demographic pressures, and workforce shortages.

Tourism stewardship: how destination organisations are driving change

26 September 2024 Kiri Goulter - (RTNZ)

Reading Time: 4 minutesTourism is at a crossroads, facing social, environmental and logistical issues. To maintain long-term sustainable growth in the sector, a stewardship approach must replace the growth-driven model.

Local climate action meets economic development: Lessons from the Melbourne Climate Network

26 September 2024 Andrew Wear - (City of Melbourne)

Reading Time: 4 minutesThe Melbourne Climate Network unites diverse sectors to address climate challenges and foster economic growth. Learn how it emphasises collaboration, climate tech innovation, and inclusive job creation for sustainable development.

Braga’s Beacon for democracy: How the city is engaging its residents

25 September 2024 Ricardo Rio - (Mayor)

Reading Time: 4 minutesBraga, Portugal, is enhancing citizen engagement through participatory budgets, digital platforms, and inclusive programs. Learn how efforts focus on empowering diverse voices, utilizing data for informed participation, and fostering a culture of active citizenship for future democracy.

Re-energising ESG standards to improve well-being in mining regions

20 September 2024 Tara Shea - (MAC)

Reading Time: 3 minutesWith increasing demand for minerals and Environmental Social Governance (ESG) standards in the mining industry, it is important that communities, the private sector and other stakeholders collaborate effectively.

IP-lifying SMEs Access to Finance

19 September 2024 Guy Pessach - (WIPO)

Reading Time: 4 minutesIntellectual Property (IP)- backed financing offers an opportunity for SMEs to find funding. This approach is still in its early days, and there are challenges to be overcome, however programs like WIPO’s IP Management Clinic can help SMEs navigate this space.

Labour markets without borders: Greater Copenhagen’s vision for the future

27 August 2024 Jan Hendeliowitz - (Greater Copenhagen)

Reading Time: 3 minutesIn celebration of the 25th birthday of the Øresund Bridge, Greater Copenhagen solidifies its status as a leading cross-border region, showing significant economic growth and plans for further integration.

Is green talent the new oil? Latin America and the Caribbean are betting on skills

12 August 2024 Dulce Baptista - (IDB), Sebastián Peñaherrera Proaño - (IDB) and Lucas Leblanc - (OECD)

Reading Time: 4 minutesThe green transition could create 15 million new jobs by 2030, but regional disparities and skill mismatches require collaboration to address.

Indigenous peoples in mining regions: From compensation to collaboration?

09 August 2024 Sinead Teevan - (OECD) and Jenny-Lou Campbell - (Anishinabek Nation)

Reading Time: 4 minutesHistorically, Indigenous communities have faced unequal benefits and limited capacity for development in mining projects. However, international and national efforts, along with industry shifts, are creating new possibilities for Indigenous involvement and well-being.

Can more tourism be better tourism?

09 August 2024 Tim Fairhurst - (ETOA)

Reading Time: 4 minutesThe tourism industry faces challenges from growing demand and social rejection. Despite this, it provides revenue for cultural preservation, sustains local businesses, and fosters community celebration.

Let’s get real: Tourism’s toughest challenges are yet to be tackled

02 August 2024 Jeremy Sampson - (The Travel Foundation)

Reading Time: 4 minutesThe OECD report addresses the significant challenges to sustainability within the tourism sector. It’s time to call for coordinated actions to address these issues effectively.

Towards a new generation of tourism policies

01 August 2024 Sergio Guerreiro - (Turismo de Portugal)

Reading Time: 3 minutesThe tourism industry is experiencing a remarkable recovery post-pandemic. Looking ahead, the sector needs forward-thinking policies aligned with climate change, sustainability, and technology adoption.

Can AI technology power SME growth? Policy makers may have the answer…

30 July 2024 Kerry McLean - (Intuit)

Reading Time: 3 minutesSMEs make up over 98% of businesses in the US, Canada, and the UK. AI tools can help them grow faster – but better policies and data are needed.

Unlocking digital dividends: How are Korean SMEs harnessing the potential of AI?

26 July 2024 Jane So - (SJU)

Reading Time: 3 minutesSMEs face pressure to adopt digital and AI tools despite barriers. Government support and stakeholder collaboration are crucial for their success.

Bright beginnings in Brisbane: How the city is limbering up for the 2032 Games

25 July 2024 Dy Currie - (Brisbane City Council)

Reading Time: 4 minutesBrisbane is gearing up to host the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, aiming for long-term benefits through strategic planning, infrastructure, resident engagement, and global partnerships.

Getting the productivity recipe right means regions need their own special policy mix

10 July 2024 Alessandra Proto - (OECD), Laura Pedron - (The Autonomous Province of Trento), Carlo Menon - (OECD) and Wessel Vermeulen - (OECD)

Reading Time: 3 minutesTrentino is facing stagnating productivity. In response, the local government is taking action to bolster high-tech manufacturing and support SMEs.

Healthy minds, healthy businesses: Prioritising mental health in SMEs

04 July 2024 Taisuke Hashimoto - (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry), Makiko Yamazaki - (METI), Ryosuke Kawachimaru - (Japan Research Institute) and Giorgia Ponti - (OECD)

Reading Time: 3 minutesIn today’s fast-paced work environment, good mental health is essential for fostering productivity and prosperity. Discover Japan’s initiatives to build business resilience.

Un véritable changement de donne : Comment Paris utilise les Jeux Olympiques et Paralympiques pour aider ses citoyens à retrouver un emploi

02 July 2024 Afaf El Kaoun - Gabelotaud - (Deputy Mayor)

Reading Time: 4 minutesLe Maire de Paris a priorisé la création d’emplois et la transformation des vies grâce aux Jeux Olympiques. Un plan d’action a permis à 4 000 Parisiens de bénéficier de parcours d’emploi.

A game changer: How Paris is using the Games to get people back to work

02 July 2024 Afaf El Kaoun - Gabelotaud - (Deputy Mayor)

Reading Time: 3 minutesThe Mayor of Paris prioritised creating jobs and transforming lives for the Olympics. An action plan resulted in 4,000 Parisians benefiting from employment pathways – find out how.

Empowering SMEs for Digital Transformation and Innovation: the Italian Way

27 June 2024 Valentino Valentini - (Deputy Minister)

Reading Time: 3 minutesItaly’s economy thrives on over 4 million small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) – the highest number of SMEs among the EU’s Member States. These SMEs employ 13 million people and generate more than 65% of the nation’s added value. They are the powerhouse of the Italian economy, playing a crucial role in economic growth.

Unlocking venture capital to kickstart SME investments

26 June 2024 Miriam Koreen - (OECD), Marco Marchese - (OECD) and Maria Camila Jimenez - (OECD)

Reading Time: 4 minutesHigh inflation has driven SME interest rates up by 30% in 2022, making alternative finance like venture capital crucial for growth. Governments are working to develop VC markets.

Can SMEs be the unsung heroes of the green transition?

25 June 2024 Alix Philouze - (OECD)

Reading Time: 4 minutesThe OECD’s “No Net Zero Without SMEs” campaign emphasises the crucial role of small and medium-sized enterprises in green innovation and climate action. Despite challenges, opportunities for sustainable SMEs are growing globally.

A winning strategy: How Paris 2024 is delivering for its SMEs

24 June 2024 Marie Barsacq - (French National Olympic Committee)

Reading Time: 4 minutesThe Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games aim to support local small businesses through targeted initiatives, including facilitating access to contracts and fostering entrepreneurship among youth. These efforts are expected to leave a lasting legacy for SMEs and local communities.

Hidden Heroes: The valor of volunteers at the Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics

20 June 2024 Marine Petit - (Paris 2024 Organising Committee)

Reading Time: 4 minutesParis 2024 relies on 45,000 diverse volunteers, guided by a comprehensive legal framework and matching assignments that enhance their effectiveness and satisfaction.

Paris 2024: The sprint for sustainable buildings

14 June 2024 Ji-Soo Yoon - (OECD) and Bunthan Iea - (IPEF)

Reading Time: 4 minutesParis is preparing for the Games with a focus on low-carbon initiatives, in line with the RE2020 regulations. The project also emphasises the circular economy by prioritising innovative and reusing materials.

Recycling Wins: How the Olympic and Paralympic Games can power the Circular Economy

12 June 2024 Bastien Rambaud - (VESTO)

Reading Time: 4 minutesResponsible purchasing is a key focus of Paris’ approach to the circular economy. Vesto’s success demonstrates the potential of integrating the circular economy into large-scale events and public procurement.

Making waves: Local action for ocean protection

08 June 2024 Loreley Picourt - (OCP), Oriana Romano - (OECD) and Juliette Lassman - (OECD)

Reading Time: 4 minutesThe ocean covers 70% of Earth’s surface and is crucial in regulating the climate. Immediate actions are needed to protect and restore ocean ecosystems.

The legacy of London 2012 is more than bricks and mortar, it’s also well-being for communities

06 June 2024 Amy Finch - (Spirit of 2012)

Reading Time: 4 minutesLondon 2012 ‘s legacy includes pride and unity, and the Spirit of 2012 continues this legacy by focusing on social outcomes and wellbeing, a model for Paris 2024.

Better buildings are taking on the climate challenge

31 May 2024 Rogier van den Berg - (WRI)

Reading Time: 3 minutesWe spend so much of our lives in homes and workspaces. We need to focus on decreasing emissions via whole-life decarbonisation of buildings.

Financing our future: How subnational governments can mobilise the resources to deliver on the SDGs

22 May 2024 Stefano Marta - (OECD), Isabelle Chatry - (OECD), Lorenz Gross - (OECD), Guillaume Lafortune - (UN) and Eamon Drumm - (Sustainable urban development specialist)

Reading Time: 4 minutesLocal governments are struggling to secure resources to deliver on the SDGs. But there are ways to improve fiscal capacity and financing, including partnerships with the private sector.

The Transformative Power of Generative AI: Insights from an Entrepreneur

17 May 2024 Tibbe Verschaffel - (Planet B)

Reading Time: 3 minutesThe transformative power of AI has reshaped business operations and customer engagement, promoting innovation, efficiency, and seamless communication. Embracing AI is crucial for business growth and a better future.

The EU needs to close a competitiveness gap and boost investment: What is the role of subnational governments and cohesion policy?

29 April 2024 Dorothée Allain-Dupré - (OECD) and Joaquim Oliveira Martins - (EU)

Reading Time: 3 minutesThe EU must urgently enhance competitiveness in green and digital transitions, requiring significant investment.

More than just a desk: Can co-working spaces make labour markets more inclusive?

11 April 2024 Mariachiara Barzotto - (University of Bath), Felicia Fai - (University of Bath), Philip Tomlinson - (University of Bath), Mattia Corbetta - (OECD) and Wessel Vermeulen - (OECD)

Reading Time: 4 minutesThe pandemic has led to a surge in co-working spaces, offering flexible work options for professionals. These spaces can promote inclusivity by supporting diverse workers and creating local economic growth.

AI: Mirage or miracle for service delivery in shrinking regions?

04 April 2024 Marc Bournisien de Valmont - (OECD)

Reading Time: 3 minutesNearly 40% of remote OECD regions are shrinking due to aging populations and migration to cities. AI offers potential solutions, including improved healthcare delivery, education, and personalised services, but requires support and governance to mitigate risks.

From Trash to Treasure: how to generate value from our waste?

29 March 2024 Janez Potočnik - (UN) and Oriana Romano - (OECD)

Reading Time: 3 minutesOnly 9% of plastic waste is recycled in OECD countries. Transitioning to a circular economy could yield significant environmental and economic benefits, but bold policy action is needed to drive this change.

De l’ambition à l’action : Accélérer l’action climatique locale et la résilience

28 March 2024 Tadashi Matsumoto - (OECD), Isabelle Chatry - (OECD) and Alexandre Banquet - (OECD)

Reading Time: 5 minutesL’action climatique locale est la bienvenue et depuis longtemps attendue. Cependant, nous savons que passer de l’ambition à l’action s’est révélé être un défi par le passé. Que peuvent faire les dirigeants nationaux et locaux pour que cela se réalise ?

From ambition to action: Accelerating local climate action and resilience

28 March 2024 Tadashi Matsumoto - (OECD), Isabelle Chatry - (OECD) and Alexandre Banquet - (OECD)

Reading Time: 4 minutesLocal climate action is welcome and long overdue. However, we know that moving from ambition to action has proved a challenge in the past. What can national and local leaders do to make it happen?

Culture as Infrastructure: Policy Lessons from Abu Dhabi’s Creative Economy

07 July 2026 Dr. Elena Raevskikh and Dr. Giovanna Di Mauro

Reading Time: 4 minutesIn Abu Dhabi, investment in culture is helping to build the foundations of a diversified, future-facing economy. Between 2022 and 2025, Abu Dhabi’s cultural and creative industries recorded 13.4% growth, but how can culture become a new source of sustainable growth?

From World Cup excitement to lasting local benefits: what can cities learn?

03 July 2026 Zhi Hui Lin (OECD Policy Analyst)

Reading Time: 4 minutesOn June 11, Mark Carney opened the 2026 men’s FIFA World Cup with a message of pride and ambition. Two weeks later, that ambition became history: how can countries turn global attention into lasting local benefits?

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