What We Do

CUI provides research, programs, and capacity-building support across Canada to help communities address their most pressing challenges—from housing and climate resilience to economic development and civic engagement. 

We do this through: 

  • Applied research and public policy that surfaces ideas, informs decisions, and drives systems change 
  • Place-based programs like Main Street Canada and Climate Ready Canada that support local leaders and tell community stories 
  • Data tools and analysis that empower communities to make evidence-based decisions 
  • Partnerships and convening that bring together diverse voices to share knowledge and solve problems 

Our Approach

We work from the ground up, centering local needs, values, and leadership. Our approach is collaborative, interdisciplinary, multi-dimensional, and equity-focused, designed to build capacity within communities while shaping national conversations. Through Main Street Canada, CUI has created a scalable platform that empowers municipalities, BIAs, and other community-building organizations to strengthen the commercial, cultural, and social fabric from coast to coast to coast.

Why It Matters

From main streets to metropolitan regions, the places we live are facing complex challenges. CUI is here to support communities and help them respond with creativity, resilience, and shared purpose—because when places work better for people, everyone benefits. 

Learn more about our work at www.canurb.org