The call is looking for projects that will trigger real transformation in cities, generate investment and inspire others.
Projects should focus on one of the following three priorities:
Experiment and deliver tangible innovative solutions for green and blue infrastructures, addressing biodiversity, pollution and climate challenges.
To trigger long-term green and digital transformation, resilience and sustainability in the tourism sector. This could be achieved by diversifying tourism products, seeking a positive impact on local communities and the environment, fostering social inclusion and social innovation, and improving connections to smaller areas and cities.
Integrated, place-based pilot projects to test new solutions for retaining and attracting talent. This could be achieved by involving local communities and addressing the economic, social and environmental dimensions caused by the demographic transition.
The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) will finance 80% of the cost of the selected projects. Each project can receive up to €5 million. Part of this funding will support the transfer of innovative solutions to other cities in Europe to ensure an even greater impact, especially in cities and regions most in need of sustainable urban transformation. To this end, the supported city authorities will establish transfer partnerships with three other cities to replicate the projects.
The call is open to all EU cities individually or in groups. Interested applicants are invited to register for information seminars and other meetings scheduled in the coming weeks. Details will be available on the EUI website.
The deadline for applications is 5 October 2023.
More information can be found at this link.
