European Capital of Innovation Awards 2026
Hasta el miércoles, 18 de junio de 2025 a las 17:00
The European Capital of Innovation Awards (iCapital), supported by the European Innovation Council (EIC) under Horizon Europe, rewards European cities that lead the way in developing vibrant innovation ecosystems, making innovation a driving force for sustainable growth, social inclusion, and improved quality of life.
The iCapital Awards celebrate cities that embrace innovation at all levels, from mobilizing public and private stakeholders to fostering entrepreneurship, and implementing forward-thinking policies that serve as role models across Europe. The competition is open to cities from EU Member States and countries associated with Horizon Europe.
Why apply?
Winning or being a finalist for the iCapital Awards brings numerous benefits, including:
- EU-wide recognition as a leader in urban innovation
- Financial support to enhance local innovation strategies
- Opportunities to connect with other pioneering cities and share best practices, through the iCapital Alumni Network.
Categories
In 2026, the European Capital of Innovation Awards features two categories:
- The European Capital of Innovation category for cities with a population of minimum 250 000 inhabitants and rewards the winner with EUR 1.000.000 and two runners-up with EUR 100.000 each.
- The European Rising Innovative City category that targets towns and cities with a population of 50 000 and up to 249 999 inhabitants and rewards the winner with EUR 500.000 and two runners-up with EUR 50.000 each.
The deadline for submission is 18 June 2025, 17:00 CET.
The full text of the iCapital Awards' call is available in the EIC Work Programme 2025.
24/03/2025 11:43 | CarmenDiaz