ICSC acts as a broker to ensure the project moves forward, seeking outside funding and sources of expertise. Projects are centered on obtaining physical, tangible outputs such as a new or upgraded physical plant, a public education campaign or an improvement in physical conditions. The main evaluation criterion used is whether the living conditions of a specific group of individual citizens are improved or made more sustainable. In order for a local government to obtain support from ICSC, the government needs to demonstrate a commitment to sustainable development. Also, local governments should be willing to contribute in-kind resources to projects and to communicate and transact in an orderly and timely fashion.
Cities receive support if their specific needs match a strength found in Canada.
Related Publications and Resources ICSC publishes a newsletter, which includes profiles of its projects and other information. A volunteer board of prominent Canadians directs ICSC's activities. A small head office is comprised of Canadian staff. ICSC has developed long-term relationships with Canadian providers of expertise engaged on a consulting basis.