The Tokyo LEADS [Learn. Adapt. Scale.] 2026 program will open with the Innovation in Infrastructure Impact Event, where experts from the World Bank, JICA, ADB, and JADE will come together to examine how evidence and innovation can guide the future of infrastructure.

The event will feature leading voices, including Stéphane Straub, Chief Economist for Infrastructure at the World Bank Group; Albert Park, Chief Economist of the Asian Development Bank; and Arianna Legovini, Director of Impact at the World Bank Group.

The program will examine how impact evaluation helps illuminate the benefits of infrastructure and how these vary across contexts. An Innovation Bazaar will showcase new methods and measurement approaches, highlight emerging ideas and innovations from across the region. 

The event will close with a dedicated space for researcher-practitioner collaboration, laying the groundwork for new partnerships ahead of the Tokyo LEADS workshop.

TIME SESSION
8:30 - 9:00 AM Registration
9:00 - 9:15 AM Welcome words
9:15 - 10:00 AM

Opening Keynote: The Return Imperative

Featuring Stéphane Straub, Chief Economist for Infrastructure, World Bank Group
10:00 - 11:00 AM

Panel Discussion

Featuring Albert Park, Chief Economist, Asian Development Bank and international panelists
11:00 - 11:30 AM Coffee break
11:30 - 12:30 PM

How Impact Evaluation Illuminates the Benefits of Infrastructure

Led by Sveta Milusheva, Senior Economist and ieConnect Program Lead, World Bank Group

Lightning presentations with JICA Research, JADE, ADB and World Bank Group panelists
12:30 - 1:30 PM Lunch
1:30 - 2:45 PM

Assessing Heterogeneity in the Benefits of Infrastructure

Led by Arianna Legovini, Director of Development Impact, World Bank Group

Lightning presentations with JICA Research, ADB and World Bank Group panelists
2:45 - 3:15 PM Coffee break
3:15 - 4:15 PM Innovation Bazaar: Methods and Measurements for Assessing Infrastructure
4:15 - 5:00 PM Reflections from Today and the Evidence Agenda Ahead
5:00 - 5:15 PM Closing Remarks
6:00 - 8:00 PM Dinner