Every purchase made has an impact. It is, therefore, no surprise that sustainable procurement has become a key tool for cities looking to strengthen their urban sustainability. But, what if cities are searching for solutions that aren't yet on the market? What if cities want to "purchase innovation"?

The AI4Cities project brings together six leading European cities looking for innovative solutions that apply Artificial Intelligence (AI) and related technologies – such as big data applications, 5G, edge computing and IoT – to reduce CO2 emissions in the fields of mobility and energy. The project is working with these cities, including ICLEI Members Helsinki (Finland), Copenhagen (Denmark) and Stavanger (Norway), on an AI "pre-commercial procurement" (PCP) process.

PCP is a so-called innovation procurement tool that enables the public sector to steer the development of new solutions that are not yet market ready directly towards its needs. The AI4Cities project is matching these six leading cities with AI suppliers to ensure that urban challenges can directly inform cutting-edge AI solutions. The total funding amount to be divided among the selected suppliers throughout the whole AI4Cities PCP process is 4.6 million EUR.

On 28 May from 10:00-12:00 CET, the AI4Cities project is hosting its first global Open Market Consultation (as a webinar). This consultation will kick-start the dialogue process between cities and potential suppliers of artificial intelligence solutions to accelerate the transition to carbon neutrality.

This webinar is the first opportunity for the demand and supply sides to meet to learn more about what the market is currently offering and what European cities require to meet their needs and climate goals.

To learn more, join the webinar on Thursday, 28 May. Register by clicking here.