Reza Pourvaziri, Chair of the Urban Economy Forum, speaks at the July 8, 2025 Lowell City Council meeting via zoom.

Last night, the Lowell City Council welcomed guests from the Frontrunner City initiative to its council chambers, both in person and via zoom, for a presentation on what a partnership with the United Nations affiliated Urban Economy Forum (UEF) means for the Mill City.

The main presentation by Reza Pourvaziri via Zoom highlighted economic development, urban planning, equity, engagement, visibility and influence as benefits of the designation for Lowell.

In explaining why Lowell was chosen, Pourvaziri spoke of its historic significance during the Industrial Revolution, diverse population and the political will and leadership exhibited by the Mayor, City Council and City Manager, along with its participation in last year’s Urban Economy Forum.

The UEF Chair also added the academic and innovation ecosystem, mentioning not only UMass Lowell, but also M.I.T. as a partner in helping create innovation labs and research centers.

The vision includes a 10-15 year roadmap with measurable outcomes, a package of projects with pathways to finance ranging from private capital, federal grants and green bonds. It would recognize and position Lowell globally with an elevated role at international forums and the potential to host global delegations, events and urban labs.

The international delegation participating at last night’s meeting will spend today touring the city and meeting with developers to get a better understanding of potential development projects.

The Frontrunner City Initiative is led by the Urban Economy Forum and supported by UN-Habitat and the Government of Canada. Lowell is the first city in the entire United States to receive this recognition, placing it in a distinguished global network of cities advancing innovation-driven development.