MIPIM - The Global Urban Festival
9-13 March 2026
Palais des Festivals, Cannes, France

MIPIM Challengers

Get ready for the 2026 edition: applications opening soon


The MIPIM Challengers initiative creates space for the next generation of real estate professionals to bring fresh ideas and new perspectives to the industry, while promoting the values of diversity and inclusion.
Through empowering young people and giving them a voice to influence decision-makers and industry leaders, we advocate for youth, growth and equitable change.
Since 2024, MIPIM has seen 31 Challengers on stage in Cannes from the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, and other countries, selected through essay submission. 

By building a community of fresh thinkers and future leaders, MIPIM Challengers enriches the sustainability debate while adding value to the wider industry.

2024 cohort

After an inspiring essay competition addressing global urban development challenges, with over 150 entries from 20 countries submitted, we proudly welcomed our 15 Challengers!


2025 cohort

Following a thought-provoking essay competition on overlooked disruptive ideas to improve urbanisation, which attracted entries from across the globe, the second cohort took centre stage at MIPIM in March 2025.