The Holcim Foundation Venice Forum 2025 is an invitation-only gathering uniting an international community of architects, climate scientists, planners, and leading strategists to explore groundbreaking solutions for a flood-resilient world. The event is the initiative of the Holcim Foundation for Sustainable Construction under the narrative of Retreat – Resist – Respond: Building a Flood Resilient Future, this exclusive event dives into how design can safeguard communities from rising sea levels and increasingly severe weather. 

Held in extraordinary heritage venues across Venice—one of the world’s most beautiful yet vulnerable cities—the Forum will provide an unmatched setting for intimate dialogue, high-impact networking, and meaningful exchange. More than a conference, it’s a carefully curated experience built around actionable insights, expert-led workshops, and unique site visits. Designed for inspiration and collaboration, the Forum’s ambitious mission is to spark fresh thinking, unite global talent, and lay the foundation for innovative solutions that will resonate far beyond Venice.

Guests are responsible for their own transportation and travel costs to Venice . Upon arrival at Venice Marco Polo Airport or Santa Lucia train station, complimentary ground transportation and dedicated boat shuttles will be provided, ensuring seamless transfers between the airport/train station, hotel, event venues, and scheduled Forum activities. All food, drink, and hospitality associated with official Forum events are included.

Founded in 2003, the Holcim Foundation for Sustainable Construction is a non-profit organization dedicated to accelerating the global movement for sustainable design and construction. The Foundation supports innovators in architecture, design, and engineering who aim to transform the way the world builds.

A cornerstone of the Foundation's efforts is the Holcim Foundation Awards, established in 2004. This competition recognizes and promotes projects that combine sustainable design and construction with architectural excellence. The Awards are conducted in five geographic regions: Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, Middle East & Africa, and North America. Independent expert juries (who will present the winning proposals at the Awards event) evaluate submissions based on the Foundation’s goals for sustainable construction, which include uplifting places, a healthy planet, viable economics, and thriving communities. With a total prize pool of USD 1 million, the competition has, over the past two decades, received more than 30,000 entries from 138 countries, underscoring its global reach and impact. 

Beyond the Awards, the Holcim Foundation organizes events, publishes educational materials, and fosters a community of changemakers to drive systemic change in the built environment. By showcasing real-world solutions and promoting leading-edge thinking, the Foundation aims to ensure a future built environment where both people and the planet can thrive.