The stage setting session delved into the substantive agenda of ICDRI 2023. The stage setting session highlighted the need to focus on these demonstrable practices and solutions, delving into systems, practices, finances, partnerships, and collaborative advocacy for infrastructure resilience across types of economies, geographies, climate typologies and infrastructure sectors. The first part involved Special Addresses and launch of Infrastructure Resilience Academic eXchange (IRAX) - DRI Academic Network of the Coalition. In the second part high-level functionaries participated in a moderated panel discussion to set the tone for the conference. Systems; practices; finances; partnerships; collaborative advocacy ; infrastructure resilience; Special Addresses; launch; Infrastructure Resilience Academic eXchange (IRAX); IRAX; CDRI; ICDRI; ICDRI 2023