Harris Policy Innovation Challenge: Creating a Thriving Downtown Chicago Wed., April 16, 2025 | 4:00 PM — 7:30 PM University of Chicago, Harris School of Public Policy 1307 E. 60th St. The Keller Center CHICAGO, IL 60637 United States Sponsored By: Harris Events In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, downtowns across the U.S. continue to struggle with vacant office spaces, crime, and the challenge of revitalizing business and tourism. In partnership with the Mansueto Institute for Urban Innovation, this year’s Harris Policy Innovation Challenge tackles an urgent local issue: What can Chicago do over the next three years to create a thriving downtown for the next twenty years? Over the past six months, teams of graduate students have developed data-informed, evidence-based policy solutions to revitalize Chicago’s Loop—focusing on economic development, public safety, sustainability, and inclusivity. Join us on April 16th as the final four student teams present their bold, actionable solutions to a distinguished panel of expert judges. Explore innovative ideas, hear fresh perspectives, and participate in an important conversation about the future of downtown Chicago. Register>> Recent News More news Student Profile: Maya Cousins, MPP Class of 2027 Thu., October 23, 2025 A Front-Row Seat to Russia under Putin Mon., October 20, 2025 Students Embark on Climate and Energy Career Trek in Downtown Chicago Thu., October 16, 2025
October 10, 2025 Policy Outlook: A Fireside Chat with Dean Sergei Guriev of the London Business School
July 08, 2025 University of Chicago’s Harris School of Public Policy and Institute for Climate and Sustainable Growth Launch New Pathbreaking Master’s Program in Climate and Energy Policy