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Celebrating 32 Cities Turning Data Into Results

Dear City Leaders,

At Bloomberg Philanthropies What Works Cities we believe that data is the bedrock of an effective, innovative and resilient government that improves the resident experience and delivers meaningful impact.

Today, I am honored to share that 13 new cities achieved WWC Certification while 19 cities have built on their success by sustaining or elevating their data practices. In this cohort, two cities have achieved Platinum Certification — Glendale, Arizona, and Cambridge, Massachusetts — the highest possible distinction. 

Growing Data Practices 

Cities in the What Works Cities Network are demonstrating a deep and ongoing commitment to improving how they use data to invest funds and make decisions, enabling them to target resources where they’re needed the most and respond effectively to community priorities. 

Cambridge and Glendale join only three other Platinum cities, a testament to the sustained, long-term commitment required to embed data practices into every corner of city hall. Platinum cities also stand out for their ability to directly tie data practices to tangible benefits for residents in their communities. In Cambridge, data has helped the city provide free preschool to more than 790 students. Meanwhile, in Glendale, the city’s strong performance management helps it make progress on goals like reducing blight and increasing the tree canopy to protect residents from the effects of extreme heat. 

Alongside Cambridge and Glendale, we are recognizing seven cities that have moved up a Certification level, from Silver to Gold Certification:

Ten cities have re-Certified:

These cities highlight that Certification marks a milestone rather than the end of a city’s data journey. As new technologies emerge, best practices evolve and resident expectations rise, cities must always be raising the bar and ensuring continuity of practice. 

New Certified Cities

There is also a broader wave of continued progress happening across the Americas as 13 new cities achieve Certification. Newly Certified cities are leveraging data to drive innovation, respond to community challenges and strengthen municipal governance. This cohort of cities is using analytics to tackle public health challenges, improve public safety, increase opportunities for children and strengthen emergency response, to name a few. Their stories illustrate how diverse cities, regardless of size, geography or policy priority are turning data into real impact.

Achieved Gold Certification:

Achieved Silver Certification:

Over the past few months we have visited each of these cities to learn about their data practices in person. During the trips we have the opportunity to meet with city leadership and individual departments who exemplify the creativity, enthusiasm and dedication that power this work. However, the true impact of data happens outside of city hall: We also visit parks, community centers, healthcare facilities and more to connect the dots between data practices and quality of life for residents. These experiences bring the What Works Cities Standard to life — showing how practices like data management, community engagement and performance analytics translate to better services and programs.

Stories Behind the Data

I invite you to explore the stories of these 32 cities. They are leading with data to tackle common problems at the local level, from housing and public spaces to the responsible use of AI, and they’re building trust by proactively seeking resident input and being transparent about results. 

In 2026 and beyond we look forward to continuing to support cities in the What Works Cities Network, where we help cities build data capacity and thrive in a fast-changing landscape. Alongside free learning opportunities and resources, the WWC Network connects more than 1,800 global leaders to exchange best practices and strengthen their data practices. Cities begin by taking a simple Data Snapshot to receive an initial assessment of their data practices and join the WWC Network.

The ongoing engagement of city leaders underscores the broader impact of Certification: This is not just about recognition — it is a global movement of dedicated city staff using data to change how local governments deliver for residents. When local governments base their decisions on data, they are better equipped to confront today’s priorities and tomorrow’s opportunities with confidence. 

Congratulations to these 32 Certified cities. We’re honored to celebrate your achievement and to continue on this journey with you. 

Sincerely,

Rochelle Haynes

Senior Vice President & Managing Director
Bloomberg Philanthropies What Works Cities
Results for America

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