About the Global City Forums
Founded on the belief that sustainable urban economic development requires the collaborative integration of academia, government, and industry.
Our Mission
To advance inclusive, sustainable, and resilient economic development in cities worldwide through evidence-based research, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and institutional integration.
Our Vision
A world where cities are centers of innovation and opportunity, where economic growth is inclusive, and where universities play a central role in shaping urban futures.
Our Leadership
Dr. Rodrigo Sandoval
Founder and President, International Doctoral Council
Global Business Architect and Industrial Strategist. Rodrigo Sandoval is an international entrepreneur and visionary leader who founded the International Doctoral Council (IDC), establishing it as a leading platform for advanced research and global collaboration. As a multifaceted business architect, he has created a multinational ecosystem spanning energy, investment, education, and industrial development. His strategic vision for the Global City Forums reflects his commitment to advancing inclusive, evidence-based urban economic development through institutional integration and cross-border collaboration.
Learn MoreInstitutional Independence
Independent INGO Status
Global City Forums is an independent international non-governmental organization (INGO) that operates with complete autonomy and neutrality.
We are not affiliated with any government, global economic forum, or political entity. Our operations are guided by rigorous academic standards and evidence-based research principles.
Operated by the International Doctoral Council
The International Doctoral Council (IDC) provides governance and institutional oversight, ensuring that Global City Forums maintains academic rigor, institutional independence, and long-term sustainability.
Universities retain full self-governance and academic independence in all city forums. GCF provides structure, standards, and global coordination—never control or interference.
About Our Institutional Positioning
Global City Forums is inspired by global economic dialogue and multi-stakeholder coordination models, including those advanced by major international institutions. However, we are an independent initiative focused exclusively on city-level execution and are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or formally connected to any global economic forum, government, or international organization.
We operate as a distinct institutional entity with our own governance, mission, membership structure, research standards, and strategic priorities. Any references to other organizations serve contextual purposes only and do not imply partnership, affiliation, or shared governance.