The European Commission’s Intelligent Cities Challenge (ICC) is now open for applications. Building on the success of the Digital Cities Challenge (DCC), the ICC seeks to help 100 EU cities tackle their urban challenges to support green, sustainable and inclusive growth.

This 2.5-year programme will help 100 cities from across the EU achieve greater sustainability through the uptake of advanced technologies, targeting the main thematic issues in that city – be it energy, mobility, circular economy, or other local priorities. Support toward procurement initiatives may be available and ICLEI is pleased to contribute to providing the ICC with assistance in person, online, and as a community.

Cities selected for the ICC will benefit from several tools and services to help them seize opportunities for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth, including:

• Tailored support to shape and implement an ambitious strategy for the smart use of data and technology in your city, aiming to enhance sustainability and quality of life for your communities. Based on your local needs and context, Support will include advisory services and field visits by experts, involving your local administration, industry stakeholders and educational institutions in the process.
• Access to a learning and innovation community. As an ICC participant you will join an initiative of cities dedicated to a fair and sustainable use of Smart City technologies. Multiple events will be organised to allow you to meet other participants, mentors and solution providers, including a launch event, meetings for Mayors and peer review and matchmaking events.
• Being connected to advanced city solutions. The ICC will help cities develop strategies and best practice for engaging with the market and identifying smart city solution providers and investors, supporting the delivery of your Smart City strategy. Direct support for procurement may also be provided.

If you are interested in applying, contact Mark Hidson (mark.hidson@iclei.org) or Elsa Durieux (elsa.durieux@iclei.org) to discuss your application. The deadline for application is 18 May 2020.

For more information, click here.