Welcome attendees and highlight the strategic role and fundamental impact of the metaverse on global cities, such as New York City, and on community engagement, economic development, identity, culture, branding, and inclusion.

Session will focus on “the metaverse in practice,” including how cities are capitalizing on opportunities on this platform, and discussing specific philosophies and insights guiding cities in this new immersive digital realm.

"Metaversing" city services can fundamentally shift the accessibility and level of engagement with citizens. Panelists discuss what has worked for their cities and share lessons learned from their experiences.

Session panelists will discuss their experience with the metaverse and the potential for utilizing the platform for recruiting, onboarding, and training employees.

Discussion: Putting the Metaverse to Use — Illustration NYU Class example - building a DAO 

Panelists will showcase how public art engagement can be enhanced by using the metaverse and NFTs to reach and build new communities and provide flexibility in where and how art is viewed in public spaces.

Panelists debate how city leaders can ensure inclusive access to the metaverse, reach underserved citizens, and make sure "no one is left behind."

Session hosts will take attendees on a unique walking tour of two sites near Washington Square Park to see the future.

Learn how The Whitney Museum of American Art is designing and executing its digital art strategy in the metaverse.

Marriott Marquis (will be designed as an example of an immersive experience with your avatar Chef)

Panelists discuss using the metaverse to spearhead conversations that address sustainability issues.

The economic and branding benefits to a city from opportunities identified in the metaverse are the focus of this session’s discussion. Topics to be covered include new sources of commerce and funding, and new sources of employment and capability.   

Lessons from The Maker City, San Francisco, and San Diego 

Initial findings from the NYU SPS Metaverse Momentum Index will be shared in this session.

This metaverse entrepreneur panel with NYU Alumni discusses what attracts entrepreneurs to your city and shares lessons learned from Paris, Dubai, and New York are shared.

This session focuses on how generative AI is shifting the metaverse and the related opportunities and challenges across industries and applications.

Summary of the inaugural Metaverse and Cities Summit and share next steps for this working group and future sessions.