Building on the success of the previous edition of the Intelligent Cities Challenge programme (2020-22) and its predecessor Digital Cities Challenge (2017-19), the second phase of the Intelligent Cities Challenge (ICC) has now been launched and cities are called to express their interest by applying now on the ICC website.
The ICC is a European Commission initiative supporting European cities towards the green and digital transition of their local economies, through Local Green Deals. ICC helps cities harness the power of cutting-edge technologies, while improving their economic competitiveness, social resilience and the European citizens’ quality of life. Cities across Europe looking to accelerate the Twin Transition can now apply now to be part of one of the European Commission’s largest city support initiatives supporting European cities in their green and digital transitions.
Each participating city will be asked to implement a Local Green Deal or series of concrete actions at the local level to help cities transition towards more resilient and sustainable economies. The ICC’s approach to Local Green Deals is based on governance, actions, integrated goals and partnerships.
What are the advantages in joining ICC 2.0?
This new phase of the Challenge will build on lessons learned in the first phase with a revamped approach to generate more impact tailored to cities’ needs. By joining or continuing to work with the programme, you will gain access to a range of benefits and build on achievements from the first phase.
- Become inspired by best examples: through exchange with peers, European and international mentors and learn how cities use technologies to solve urban challenges.
- Scale up visibility, recognition and business opportunities for your city: become part of a renowned, international community of innovative cities for collaborations.
- Turn strategy into impactful action: together with your lead expert, implement short and long-term projects adapted to where you are in your journey, for example: Local Green Deals, projects around construction, mobility and energy; leveraging access to finance, reskilling and procurement transversal support, and circularity initiatives, etc.
- Get your voice heard: promote city diplomacy and raise awareness through a series of face-to-face workshops, networking opportunities and go-and-see’s.
- Use your newly-developed knowledge: become a regional role model and help neighbouring cities accelerate transition into green and digital ecosystems, and create new opportunities for all.
- Take it at your own pace: cities can follow the programme at different speeds, according to the city’s resources and ambitions.
Key Dates and Application Process
All applications should be made through the Intelligent Cities Challenge website here by the deadline on 28 April 2023.
A pre submission eligibility check is offered to all cities that apply before 7 April 2023 to determine if they can continue with their applications. New cities will be assessed and if successful, invited to the interview stage. Cities will be notified of their acceptance ahead of the onboarding phase at the end of June 2023.
You can find more information here: