We present here a novel strategy based on the covalent grafting of a C-functionalized Ni–cyclam complex onto glassy carbon to achieve heterogeneous electrocatalytic CO2 reduction in neutral water at low overpotential (−500 mV vs. NHE), with moderate turnover number (TON = 454), high selectivity (85% CO produced) and good faradaic efficiency (56% CO). Direct comparison with the N-functionalized Ni–cyclam analogue highlights the benefits of this approach in terms of CO2 electroreduction.