Editorial (25/07/2023)

Dear Smart Cities Marketplace Community,

Shape: From Idea to Action - Tailored Support to Bring Your City’s Vision to Life (24/03/2025)

The Smart Cities Marketplace and the Covenant of Mayors – Europe are offering an exciting opportunity for cities with defined project ideas but facing implementation challenges. This initiative provides 20 days of free, personalised guidance to help turn your plans into action.

Explore: Cities Harnessing Innovation for Smart City Transitions: Key Takeaways from the Webinar (24/03/2025)

On 13 February, the Smart Cities Marketplace hosted a webinar titled, How can innovation from companies and universities be an asset for your smart city transition? The session brought together experts from across Europe to explore how cities can effectively leverage innovation from research institutions and businesses to advance their smart city goals.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace Takes Part in European Energy Communities Facility Strategic Dialogue (24/03/2025)

The European Energy Communities Facility aims to empower and support the development of emerging energy communities across Europe. Small lump sum grants will assist at least 140 energy communities.

Explore: BUILDSPACE Joins the Smart Cities Marketplace to Advance Urban Sustainability (24/03/2025)

The Horizon Europe BUILDSPACE project has been welcomed to the Smart Cities Marketplace, reinforcing its mission to drive data-driven sustainability in urban environments.

Explore: Report Highlights Stakeholder Perspectives on EU Urban Data Governance (24/03/2025)

This comprehensive report gathers insights from a diverse range of stakeholders, including local authorities, businesses, researchers, and civil society representatives. The report underscores the importance of effective data governance in achieving the EU's ambitious climate goals.

Explore: Mechelen, Lappeenranta and Domokos Win 2025 EU Covenant of Mayors Award for Heat Decarbonisation Success (24/03/2025)

The three winners stood out for their exceptional heat decarbonisation strategies, serving as inspiration for other cities and towns across Europe. This year’s Covenant Award was related to its Cities Heat Detox campaign, spotlighting cities’ efforts to cleanse their heating systems across Europe.

Explore: Exploring the Future of Microhubs in Last-Mile Logistics (24/03/2025)

The EIT UM Marketplace published a new article on the importance of urban logistics, efficient supply chains, and urban mobility. As cities grow, innovative solutions like sustainable logistics are essential.

Shape: Improving Energy and Resource Efficiency for Electric Bus Fleets (24/03/2025)

The Interreg Euro-Med E-MED project gathers insights to support cities in these areas and invites public transport authorities and operators to share their experiences through a survey.

Explore: Geospatial Tools for Cities Focus Group Opening Event (24/03/2025)

On 13 March, the Geospatial Tools for Cities Focus Group officially started its activities with an online opening event. All the participants met for the first time, engaging in dynamic and fruitful discussions about the group's future and planned activities for the coming months.

Explore: Making Europe Climate-Neutral - Together Is Better (24/03/2025)

A new article from the NEUTRALPATH project explores how initiatives like NEUTRALPATH and NetZeroCities are driving impact by enabling cities to share expertise, scale solutions, and tackle common challenges.

Explore: Citizen-led renovation Webinar on Energy Communities and EU Policy Updates (24/03/2025)

The webinar underscored the critical role of energy communities in achieving the EU's energy efficiency and sustainability targets. It explored synergies between Citizen-Led Renovation and Energy Service Companies.

Shape: Help Shape the Future EU Budget! (24/03/2025)

Join the online debate on the Citizens' Engagement Platform to ensure your insights inform the panel's work and inspire the proposal for the next Multiannual Financial Framework, which the Commission will present in July 2025.

Explore: REHOUSE Project - Optimising Social Housing Renovation with IoT and Monitoring (24/03/2025)

As the world moves towards sustainable and energy-efficient building solutions, many existing systems still rely on outdated, fossil-fuel-based technologies.

Explore: Dual recognition for Turin – TIPS4PED lighthouse city named the European Capital of Innovation AND Smart Tourism (24/03/2025)

Turin has been awarded two prestigious European titles, positioning itself as a leader in innovation and sustainable urban development.

Explore: Energy Cities Annual Forum 2025 (08/04/2025)

The event will provide a platform for municipalities to exchange experiences, forge new connections, and advance the transition toward climate neutrality through collaboration, networking, and shared best practices.

Explore: Swappable Battery Systems - A Clean Revolution for European Urban Mobility? (09/04/2025)

The Stan4SWAP Project, in cooperation with CEN-CENELEC and the Swappable Batteries Motorcycle Consortium, invites all interested stakeholders to an afternoon discussion of clean urban mobility in Europe and how swappable battery systems can help decarbonise urban transport.

Explore: What Europe Offers - Support for Small and Medium Cities in Transition (10/04/2025)

This interactive event will feature a curated selection of European initiatives, with representatives presenting targeted opportunities relevant to small cities. Participants will also be asked to engage in discussions to provide feedback on how the EU can deliver the enablers needed, especially for the Small Giants.

Explore: Scalable Cities Roadshow webinar on Financial Tools and Private Funding Sources for Public Sector-led Energy Transition Projects (16/04/2025)

This webinar will explore the importance of a financial strategy as a key tool for implementing climate neutrality projects within public administrations. The discussion will cover the long-term benefits of such a strategy, as well as the urgent need to actively seek and effectively manage financial resources in collaboration with private sector stakeholders.

Explore: ChangeNOW Conference 2025 (24/04/2025)

The conference aims to foster meaningful connections and actionable ideas, uniting policymakers, business leaders, activists and other stakeholders to shape a sustainable future.

Explore: Cities Mission Conference 2025 (06/05/2025)

Organised by the European Commission and the Mission Platform, the conference will bring together political representatives and practitioners from the 112 Mission Cities to celebrate the Mission’s considerable progress after three years.

Explore: EM-Power Europe 2025 (07/05/2025)

The exhibition focuses on modernising and digitalising power grids, transforming them into flexible smart grids that integrate prosumers, e-mobility, and power-to-heat solutions into a comprehensive renewable energy system.

Clean energy for EU islands forum 2025 (14/05/2025)

Island communities, experts, and stakeholders will meet to explore how to achieve a 100% renewable energy future while balancing environmental, economic, and social priorities.

Explore: European Sustainable Energy Week (10/06/2025)

The European Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW) Policy Conference is the biggest conference dedicated to renewables and efficient energy use in Europe.

Explore: Smart City Expo World Congress 2025 (04/11/2025)

As the leading event for cities, SCEWC provides a high-visibility platform to showcase cutting-edge solutions, innovations, and expertise to a global audience of industry leaders, potential partners, and investors.

Explore: How can innovation from companies and universities be an asset for your smart city transition? (23/01/2025)

Join our interactive webinar to learn how a city can tap into the innovation potential of companies and universities for its sustainability transition. You can discover how other cities and regions have already used such innovation potential through inspiring case studies.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace Joins URBACT Poland Workshop to Support Cities’ Energy Transition (23/01/2025)

The participants learned how to begin engaging private partners, supported by Smart Cities Marketplace’s tailored services, which include advisory support, matchmaking opportunities, and access to knowledge repositories.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace Focus Group Geospatial Tools for Cities at Eurisy Members' Day in Paris (23/01/2025)

Seizing the opportunity of having gathered the community for Eurisy Members’ Day, Eurisy and ICLEI organised the launch of the newly established Smart Cities Marketplace Geospatial Tools for Cities Focus Group.

Explore: Exploring the Future of Shared Micro-Mobility - E-Scooter & Bike Share Focus Group Kick-Off (23/01/2025)

The Smart Cities Marketplace's E-Scooter & Bike Share Urban Usage Focus Group recently held its kick-off event. This dynamic session explored the transformative potential of shared micro-mobility solutions for urban transportation.

Explore: New Horizon Europe Project Becomes Part of the Smart Cities Marketplace: TIPS4PED (23/01/2025)

Central to TIPS4PED’s approach is developing an Integrated Assessment Platform (IAP), which will support decision-making at the municipal level. The project will also test a digital twin-based platform to improve planning and operational efficiency in urban environments.

Explore: EIT Urban Mobility Releases First Marketplace Solutions Catalogue (23/01/2025)

EIT Urban Mobility has released the first issue of its Marketplace Solutions Catalogue, showcasing over thirty innovative solutions designed to address urban mobility challenges across Europe. The Mobility Innovation Marketplace highlights real-life implementations that deliver significant environmental, social, and economic benefits.

Shape: TIPS4PED Local ‘Focus Groups’ Kickstart Stakeholder Dialogues on Positive-Energy Districts (23/01/2025)

The workshops brought together a diverse range of stakeholders from various sectors to address shared challenges and opportunities. Participants provided valuable insights into their communities’ expectations, such as the functionalities most desired for the Integrated Assessment Platform.

Shape: A Stakeholder Engagement Guide for a Technology-Driven PED Development (23/01/2025)

BIPED developed a Stakeholder Engagement Guide to guide municipalities and communities through the process of working with PED stakeholder mapping and engagement in building intelligent positive energy districts.

Explore: Scalable Cities Cafés 2024 - Your Gateway to Urban Innovation Insights (23/01/2025)

Cities across Europe are at the forefront of addressing some of the most pressing urban challenges of our time, and the Scalable Cities Cafés provided a dynamic platform for knowledge-sharing and collaboration.

Shape: New Year, New Heat - Time to Plan for a Successful Heat Detox in 2025! (23/01/2025)

Amidst New Year resolutions, there’s no better time than now to commit to healthy heating. And, like any new commitment, it’s important to start with a plan. However, a good heating plan requires more than just goodwill from cities.

Shape: European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA) Cluster meeting – Positive Energy Neighbourhoods and Districts (23/01/2025)

The event gathered for the first time city practitioners working on PEN/PED, stakeholder organisations such as NetZeroCities and the Driving Urban Transitions Partnership, and the European Commission DG ENER and DG RTD to explore the PED challenges and solutions.

Explore: FEDARENE Launches the 2025 Roger Léron Award (23/01/2025)

From local energy agencies to public authorities and non-profits, countless initiatives strive to make energy cleaner and more efficient. The Roger Léron Award celebrates their strategic vision, leadership, and impact, highlighting achievements that help shape a more sustainable future for all.

Explore: Twelve Ukrainian Cities Join the SUN4Ukraine Initiative of the EU Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities Mission (23/01/2025)

Twelve municipalities from across Ukraine are beginning a transformative journey to climate-neutral rebuilding. They have been announced as SUN4Ukraine’s Flagship Municipalities and will be associated with the EU Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities Mission.

Explore: Scalable Cities Peer-to-Peer Roadshow in Dublin (06/02/2025)

The Roadshow in Dublin offers a unique opportunity for cities to explore citizen engagement strategies and innovative financing models that can support energy transition projects. Participants will gain valuable insights on designing and implementing energy transition projects that actively engage citizens and explore new financial avenues for scaling up sustainable initiatives.

Explore: Webinar - How can innovation from companies and universities be an asset for your smart city transition? (13/02/2025)

Join our interactive webinar to learn how a city can tap into the innovation potential of companies and universities for its sustainability transition. You can discover how other cities and regions have already used such innovation potential through inspiring case studies.

Explore: CircularPSP Follower Event: From Concept to Prototype: AI-powered Platform advancing Circularity (27/02/2025)

CircularPSP organises a third Follower Event in cooperation with the Association of Cities and Regions for Sustainable Resource Management (ACR+). ACR+ will present their work in aiding cities to act on CE.

Explore: World Sustainable Energy Days 2025 (05/03/2025)

In 4 days, this conference on energy transition and climate neutrality offers participants 6 dedicated conferences, including the European Energy Efficiency Policy Conference, the European Pellet Conference, the Industrial Energy Efficiency Conference and the Smart E-Mobility Conference.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace Opens for Businesses – Calling all Solution Providers to Join the New Platform! (12/11/2024)

The Smart Cities Marketplace is pleased to announce the launch of its brand-new Solution Provider Page. This dedicated page showcases businesses offering innovative solutions that contribute to creating smarter, more sustainable cities.

Shape & Deal: Cities of Guimarães, Vila Real, and Torres Novas Embark on Energy Community Initiatives with European Support (28/11/2024)

Three municipalities in Portugal—Guimarães, Vila Real, and Torres Novas—are set to boost their sustainability efforts by establishing energy communities with support from the Smart Cities Marketplace and its technical assistance programme.

Explore: New Policy Paper by Smart Cities Marketplace - Insights into Energy Communities from a Local Authority Perspective (13/11/2024)

The Smart Cities Marketplace has published a new policy paper titled “Looking at Energy Communities through a Local Authority Lens: Perceptions, Experiences, and Needs.” This comprehensive study is based on interviews with 44 local authorities across Europe, providing a deep dive into their views on energy communities.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace at the Smart City Expo World Congress 2024 (26/11/2024)

The Marketplace was pivotal in coordinating a European Commission booth featuring 21 EU-supported projects and initiatives spanning DG ENER, DG CNECT, DG REGIO, and other Directorates-General. The booth hosted 16 sessions with 45 speakers and welcomed 20 international delegations, including those from Japan, Korea, and Brazil.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace Hosts Webinar on Unlocking Private Sector Finance for Urban Innovation (12/11/2024)

The Smart Cities Marketplace hosted a webinar on "Unlocking Private Sector Finance for Smart Cities" to address the growing need for sustainable urban development. The event focused on financing instruments, best practices, and the role of the private sector in decarbonisation efforts, attracting a diverse range of stakeholders.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace at the Conference on Sustainable Cities & Towns in Aalborg (12/11/2024)

In early October, the Smart Cities Marketplace took part in one of Europe's most relevant events for urban sustainability, the 10th European Conference on Sustainable Cities & Towns, hosted in Aalborg, Denmark and co-organised by ICLEI.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace at Innovation Procurement and Horizon Europe City Mission and CL5 Brokerage Event (13/11/2024)

Throughout the two days, the Smart Cities Marketplace held seven targeted meetings with entrepreneurs, universities, and city representatives, exchanging ideas and exploring new collaborations to support the green transition and enhance the impact of the City Mission.

Explore: Webinar - Unlocking Private Sector Finance for Smart Cities (14/11/2024)

The Smart Cities Marketplace hosted a webinar on “Unlocking Private Sector Finance for Smart Cities” focusing on sustainable urban development. Key insights were shared on evaluating project bankability and leveraging private capital for urban projects, emphasising public-private collaboration for sustainable cities.

Shape: Geospatial Tools for Cities Focus Group at SCEWC 2024 (12/11/2024)

The Focus group provides a platform for city officials, decision-makers, industries, investors, researchers, and other smart cities stakeholders to collaborate, prioritize needs, and leverage geospatial data to create accessible and innovative solutions for sustainable urban development.

Explore: How are cities decarbonising their heat? The Covenant of Mayors has a new map! (12/11/2024)

Taking carbon and gas out of our heating systems is necessary for healthier and more resilient communities, stronger economies, and a climate-neutral future. Find out what cities are doing to detox their heat from the Covenant of Mayor's new map and join the Cities Heat Detox Campain!

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace Focus Group on Renewable Heating and Cooling Webinar - Financing the Acceleration of Clean Heat Solutions in Cities (14/11/2024)

This session explored various financing tools and business models available for cities to accelerate the deployment of clean heat solutions. The session is co-organised by Euroheat and Power and ICLEI Europe in the context of the EU Smart Cities Marketplace's Focus Group on Renewable Heating and Cooling.

Shape: Call for Cities and Solutions Providers - Survey on Conformance and Certification of Interoperable Smart City Solutions (25/11/2024)

Are you a city representative or a technology provider invested in the future of smart city interoperability? Your feedback could help shape the future of certification standards across Europe. This survey seeks feedback from city representatives and technology providers on current needs and practices related to interoperability mechanisms, testing, and certification.

Shape: Building the Energy System of the Future - Insights from the First Energy Communities Master Class (13/11/2024)

The ManagEnergy Master Class on Energy Communities covered everything from the European policy framework to the practicalities of setting up, financing, and operating energy communities. Contributions from representatives of the European Commission and CINEA provided valuable insights into regulatory barriers and potential funding opportunities.

Explore: SMC Net Zero Project Nears Completion: A Recap of Achievements and Highlights (13/11/2024)

As the SMC NetZero project nears its conclusion, it’s an opportunity to celebrate the impact made by the partner organisations. The project has equipped cities with essential tools, knowledge, and hands-on training sessions to support small and medium-sized cities (SMCs) in advancing towards net-zero emissions.

Explore: Financing deep retrofit of social housing with a holistic neighbourhood approach (02/12/2024)

The oPEN Lab project is hosting the last workshop of the roundtable series with the financial sector. Their partner BPIE will be organising this online workshop addressing social housing institutions' challenges when financing deep renovations and retrofits.

Explore: 16th Citizens' Energy Forum (05/12/2024)

The 16th Citizens Energy Forum will be co-organised by the European Commission and the Hungarian Energy and Public Utility Regulatory Authority. It will engage a wide range of local stakeholders, including NGOs, cities, communities, youth and businesses, as well as Energy Regulators and national policy-makers.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace Financing Masterclass on the Energy Transition Process (10/12/2024)

This session will offer insights into effective practices from European smart cities that have successfully implemented energy transition strategies. Attendees will also learn about the critical requirements that banks and investors consider when financing energy transition projects.

Explore: World Sustainable Energy Days 2025 (05/03/2025)

The 2025 World Sustainable Energy Days will demonstrate how to realise high policy ambitions and strengthen clean energy markets.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace and Partners at Smart City Expo World Congress 2024 (19/09/2024)

The Smart Cities Marketplace team is again participating in this year’s Smart City Expo World Congress (SCEWC), the premier global event for cities and urban innovation, taking place from 5-7 November 2024 in Barcelona, Spain.

Explore: Urban Reverb: Empowering Cities – Net-Zero Energy Solutions in Action (19/09/2024)

In Episode 7, titled Empowering Cities – Net-Zero Energy Solutions in Action, we delve into the dynamic journey of municipalities striving for net-zero energy emissions. Join us as we unravel the complexities of transitioning to sustainable energy systems, tackling the hurdles and barriers faced along the way.

Explore & Shape: Call for Topics and Participants for the Smart Cities Marketplace Focus and Discussion Groups (27/09/2024)

The Smart Cities Marketplace has launched its second call for Discussion and Focus groups. These Discussion and Focus groups aim to guide peer exchange and support cities in their smart development.

Explore: Upcoming Smart Cities Marketplace Events - A Look Ahead at Innovation and Collaboration (27/09/2024)

The Smart Cities Marketplace is preparing to host a series of events aimed at driving innovation and fostering collaboration in urban development across Europe. These upcoming events are set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of smart cities through strategic partnerships, financial insights, and networking opportunities.

Explore: Call for Participants & Survey – Smart Cities Marketplace E-Scooter and Bike-Share Urban Usage Focus Group (19/09/2024)

A new Smart Cities Marketplace Focus group aims to study e-scooter usage patterns, user needs, and existing policies across Europe. The group will publish academic papers, reports, and host webinars to share findings.

Shape: Covenant of Mayors - Revitalising cities’ health: 3 reasons to detox your city's heat (26/09/2024)

How we heat our cities has a great impact on both community health and the stability of our economy and society, influencing long-term resilience. For a healthier and stronger future, let’s detoxify our cities' heat together!

Explore: European Smart Cities Business Models (19/09/2024)

Scalable Cities would like to present its most recent publication the "European Smart Cities Business Models. Avoid the trap: From piloting projects to upscaling". This report aims to pinpoint, comprehend, and highlight viable business cases and financing models, with a special focus on Positive Energy Districts (PEDs).

Shape: Join the EU Cities Mission Twinning Learning Programme and twin to win on climate neutrality! (19/09/2024)

Looking for valuable support for your city to ramp up its climate action? As part of the EU Cities Mission, the Twinning Learning Programme is open again for applications, offering ambitious cities a unique opportunity to join an expert-supported 18-month city-to-city learning programme.

Explore: Scalable Cities – Call for Experts is now open! (19/09/2024)

Scalable Cities Secretariat has launched a new call seeking experts. The Scalable Cities Expert Group is a networking and co-working community of experienced and motivated smart city experts ready to provide technical advice and support to the Scalable Cities and the European Commission.

Explore: End of Four-Year Project Provides Extensive Building Stock Data (19/09/2024)

After four years of collaboration and innovation, the BuiltHub project has reached its successful conclusion. Through the development of a robust web-based platform, BuiltHub has supported data collection, extraction, and transformation into valuable knowledge for policymakers and stakeholders across the EU.

Explore: Call for Proposals – Zero-Pollution Cities (19/09/2024)

The European Commission has just launched a dedicated funding call under Horizon Europe to support innovative solutions that tackle pollution in urban areas (HORIZON-MISS-2024-CIT-01-02). This opportunity is specifically designed for cities like yours, seeking to create a better quality of life for citizens while protecting the environment.

Shape: Athens Welcomes Arrival of 140 New Electric Buses (19/09/2024)

The metaCCAZE city, Athens, is accelerating its efforts toward a zero-emission mobility with the recent addition of 140 new electric buses. Approximately 60 of these buses are already in daily operation, providing a cleaner and more efficient mode of transport for residents and visitors.

Explore: MOBILITIES FOR EU Joins Forces at Cities Mission Conference in Valencia (19/09/2024)

The vibrant city of Valencia has become the hub of urban mobility innovation as it hosts the NetZeroCitiesEU Mission Conference, titled ‘Empowering Cities – the Climate Neutral and Smart Cities Mission in Action.’

Shape: Pioneering Solar Integration in European Infrastructure – Meet the Increase Project (19/09/2024)

The Increase project is at the forefront of a transformative initiative to advance the integration of photovoltaic (PV) technology within buildings and infrastructure across Europe.

Explore: SPARCS Final Conference – Accelerating Sustainable Urban Transformation (20/09/2024)

The SPARCS Final Conference, held on September 11-12 in Espoo, Finland, marked the culmination of a five-year journey towards sustainable urban innovation and climate neutrality.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace Workshop @10th European Conference on Sustainable Cities & Towns (01/10/2024)

Join the Smart Cities Marketplace in the workshop of the Adaption mission on Financing and investement solution for climate resilience. This session will bring together experts in climate adaption finance, regional transformation, and shared governance to identify conrete actions that can support cities and regions.

Explore: Call to join the CIVITAS Political Exchange Forum at the CIVITAS Forum 2024 (01/10/2024)

The PEF brings together decision-makers, politicians, and stakeholders to engage in an open and collaborative dialogue on key sustainable mobility topics.

Explore: Roadshow webinar – How to Build a Viable Energy Community: Business Models & Financial Schemes through Crowdfunding Philosophy (03/10/2024)

The webinar will explore how an increased IRR may impact the crowdfunding philosophy and the importance of having conscious and committed participants in the energy transition.

Explore: Empowering Urban Decarbonisation through CCUS (07/10/2024)

This workshop will spotlight the pioneering cities of Trondheim, Gothenburg, Rotterdam, and Zurich, as they share their journeys and strategies in implementing Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) technologies.

Explore: EU RegionsWeek 2024: “Empowering communities” (07/10/2024)

The European Week of Regions and Cities is an annual four-day event during which cities and regions showcase their capacity to create growth and jobs, implement European Union Cohesion Policy, and prove the importance of the local and regional level for good European governance.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace – Innovation Procurement and Horizon Europe City Mission and CL5 Brokerage Event (10/10/2024)

On 11 October the Smart Cities Marketplace will moderate Mission City Ecosystem and Matchmaking panel from 9:45 to 11:00 CET. The aim of this panel is to connect the keynote on the City Mission ecosystem with the City Mission Horizon Europe calls matchmaking session

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace Webinar on Private Sector Finance for Smart Cities (15/10/2024)

The Smart Cities Marketplace is pleased to announce an upcoming webinar titled "Unlocking Private Sector Finance for Smart Cities – Financing Instruments and Best Practices." This 90-minute session will feature experts from BwB and Technopolis discussing green finance instruments and different financing types relevant to smart city projects.

Explore: EPAH International Annual Conference in Barcelona (15/10/2024)

This year, at its fourth edition, the event is focused on the theme"Turning the Tide: Paving the Way for Energy Poverty Alleviation." This annual meeting promises to be a crucial gathering of local governments, policymakers, experts, and stakeholders dedicated to addressing energy poverty and fostering sustainable solutions at the local level.

Explore: ASCEND Workshop in Stockholm (15/10/2024)

The workshop will involve the three on-site Expert Training sessions as part of ASCEND’s Capacity Building Programme. The Expert Training sessions are focused on the evaluation of PCED solutions.

Explore: Smart Country Convention (15/10/2024)

The Smart Country Convention (in short: SCCON) is Germany’s largest congress for the digitisation in the public sector. As a driving force for the future of a modern public administration and smart cities, SCCON is a must for all key players who want to drive the digital change.

Explore: Atelier Webinar E-mobility in the transformation towards energy neutral cities (17/10/2024)

ATELIER is organising a webinar on the topic of e-mobility and its role in the transition towards energy neutral cities. In this webinar they will present the challenge of e-mobility (EV) integration in a local energy system.

Explore: Matchmaking Info Session (24/10/2024)

Register for the info session and learn all about the matchmaking opportunities of the Marketplace as well as the ongoing call for applications. The online session is a valuable opportunity to ask specific questions to our experts about the Smart Cities Marketplace and how to engage in the call directly.

Explore: P2P Roadshow in Kladno, Czech Republic (24/10/2024)

Scalable Cities would like to present an upcoming in-person peer-to-peer Roadshow that will take place in the Czech city of Kladno, focusing on Energy Communities projects. This event will bring together nine cities from across Europe that are either developing or interested in develop energy community projects.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace – Smart City Expo World Congress (05/11/2024)

Every year, the expo brings together leaders from global companies, governments and organizations to move cities towards a better future. The goal is to collectivise urban innovation across the globe and empower cities to tackle the critical challenges facing them today.

Explore: GovTech Connect Assembly (28/11/2024)

Join European leaders and the GovTech community to push the boundaries of public innovation and facilitate impactful progress across Europe.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace Financing Masterclass on the Energy Transition Process (10/12/2024)

Attend our Smart Cities Marketplace Financing Masterclass to explore essential tools provided by SCM to enhance city project financing, specifically tailored for the energy transition process. This session will offer insights into effective practices from European smart cities that have successfully implemented energy transition strategies.

Explore: Solution Booklet ICT Infrastructure Management (12/07/2024)

As cities aspire to become more digitised, automated, and smart, local governments must consider the readiness of their telecom infrastructure and network architecture to meet these future challenges. This booklet explores critical topics related to building a consistent, sustainable, and reliable smart city infrastructure.

Explore: Solution Booklet Socio-Technical Tipping Points (12/07/2024)

This booklet explores the concept of "Social Tipping Points" (STPs), moments of significant societal change that can trigger major shifts like political upheavals, social revolutions, and changes in mentality.

Explore: Solution Booklet District Heating and Cooling (18/07/2024)

District heating and cooling networks constitute a proven solution for large scale thermal energy distribution that has been deployed in a growing number of cities worldwide, using a diversity of technologies that can enable synergies between the production and distribution of heat, cold, domestic hot water and electricity.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace Hosts Informative Webinar with Spanish Cities (12/07/2024)

The Smart Cities Marketplace organised a successful webinar titled "Smart Cities Marketplace: sesión informativa con ciudades españolas," to engage with representatives from over 20 Spanish cities.

Explore: Urban Reverb - Living in an Island Age (12/07/2024)

In this episode, we introduce the EU islands secretariat and discuss the similarities between the decarbonisation efforts of small and mid-sized cities and those of islands. We explore whether islands can serve as models for the decarbonisation of towns.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace Engages in ePlanet Webinar to Discuss Next Steps for Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plans (12/07/2024)

The Smart Cities Marketplace actively participated in the ePlanet webinar titled "Actividad de ampliación de Girona. Plan de Acción para el Clima y la Energía Sostenible (PACES), ¿qué viene después? Implementación y monitoreo."jointly organised with the Covenant of Mayors.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace EUSEW Session Showcases Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Urban Futures (15/07/2024)

At this year's EU Sustainable Energy Week, the Smart Cities Marketplace organised a dynamic pitch session that captivated a diverse audience of public institutions and stakeholders. The session highlighted five innovative and replicable solutions from across Europe.

Explore & Shape: ENCLUDE - A Changemaker's Guide to the Energy Transition (12/07/2024)

This playbook is developed based on both adapting a design thinking approach to systems change and the learnings we had in the ENCLUDE project while running a leadership development program for changemakers known as the ENCLUDE Academy.

Explore: Discover how Citizen Engagement Is Fostering Cities' Climate Neutrality Journeys (15/07/2024)

As cities address climate change, engaging citizens in urban decision-making is crucial for developing effective, equitable, and community-aligned climate strategies. Explore NetZeroCities' latest article series to discover how cities like Mannheim, Turku, and Nantes are prioritising citizen engagement in their climate neutrality efforts.

Explore: EU Covenant of Mayors Unveils Heating and Cooling Detox Initiative (15/07/2024)

To combat climate change, the EU Covenant of Mayors has launched a groundbreaking Heating and Cooling Detox campaign, stressing the urgent need for cities to cleanse their heating and cooling systems.

Explore: Key Takeaways from the Cities Mission Conference (15/07/2024)

Two years into the Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities Mission, cities have made significant progress in their plans to achieve climate neutrality. Over 30 cities have received the EU Mission Label for their Climate City Contracts, with more to follow.

Shape: Discover the Climate Capital Hub (15/07/2024)

The Climate City Capital Hub, part of the NetZeroCities' offering as the Cities Mission Platform, was launched at the Cities Mission Conference in June. It aims to facilitate both public and private financing for Mission Cities that have received the EU Mission Label.

Explore: Financing and Business Models for the PCEDs in Dresden (15/07/2024)

ASCEND & NEUTRALPATH projects organised a webinar focused on the financing and business models aspects that are central to their effort in developing and implementing the Positive Clean Energy Districts in Europe.

Shape: NetZeroCities’ Enabling City Transformation Call for MissionCities (15/07/2024)

The Enabling City Transformation Call invites Mission Cities to propose innovative actions to overcome systemic challenges faced when implementing climate action. This eighteen-month programme aims to foster large-scale, city-wide transformation, building upon and progressing beyond the Pilot Cities programme.

Shape: EIT Urban Mobility’s CITY RAPTOR currently Receiving Expressions of Interest (15/07/2024)

CITY Rapid Applications for Transport (RAPTOR) is a city-driven, challenge-based, and agile innovation competition designed to quickly develop and test solutions for specific urban mobility challenges in cities across Europe.

Explore: CINEA Report - An Inclusive Energy Transition (15/07/2024)

Achieving a citizen-centred and inclusive energy transition requires harnessing affordable and clean energy solutions while facilitating the active participation of consumers in line with the aims of the European Green Deal. This CORDIS Results Pack highlights 15 EU-funded projects that are making this happen.

Explore: EuComMeet Final Event (15/07/2024)

The EuComMeet project’s final event, "Just Transition & Participatory Democracy: Lessons Learned from H2020 EuComMeet Project," was held at the European Committee of the Regions. This marked the end of four years of research on new forms of deliberative democracy involving citizens in decision-making.

Explore: SPARCS Final Conference - Sparking Transformation Towards Sustainable Cities (11/09/2024)

SPARCS project is organising its final event from in Espoo, Finland that will offer meetings, public presentations, and networking opportunities. The Lighthouse cities Espoo and Leipzig will look back at the milestones achieved in positive energy districts, mobility, energy and ICT systems.

Explore: Circular PSP - AI & Digital Platfrom Enabling the Circular Economy Transition (12/09/2024)

The aim of the online event is to present the outcomes of the CircularPSP Tender and the current work. This event is organised for the members of the CircularPSP’s Follower Network, but any other interested stakeholder in the field of circularity is more than welcome!

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace Financing Masterclass on Climate Neutrality (25/09/2024)

This session will offer insights into effective practices from European smart cities that have successfully implemented climate-neutral strategies. Attendees will also learn about the critical requirements that banks and investors consider when financing climate-focused projects.

Explore: CIVITAS Political Exchange Forum (01/10/2024)

The next meeting of the CIVITAS Politicians Exchange Forum (PEF) during the upcoming CIVITAS Forum Conference in Parma, Italy. The PEF brings together decision-makers, politicians, and stakeholders to engage in an open and collaborative dialogue on key sustainable mobility topics.

Explore: EU RegionsWeek 2024 - Empowering communities (07/10/2024)

The European Week of Regions and Cities is an annual four-day event during which cities and regions showcase their capacity to create growth and jobs, implement European Union Cohesion Policy, and prove the importance of the local and regional level for good European governance.

Explore: Smart Country Convention (15/10/2024)

The Smart Country Convention is Germany’s largest congress for the digitisation in the public sector. It is all about the successful digitisation of federal, state and local authorities.

Explore: Enlit Europe (22/10/2024)

Enlit is a high-level energy forum connecting industries, inspiring actions and helping Europe evolve into one decarbonised and digitalised energy system for the energy transition. The forum addresses every aspect of the energy agenda, from decarbonisation of industry and transportation, to power generation and energy storage!

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace - Smart City Expo World Congress (05/11/2024)

The Smart City Expo World Congress is the world’s biggest and most influential event for cities and urban innovation. Stay tuned for the Smart Cities Marketplace's involvement in the Smart City Expo World Congress.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace Financing Masterclass on the Energy Transition Process (10/12/2024)

This session will offer insights into effective practices from European smart cities that have successfully implemented energy transition strategies. Attendees will also learn about the critical requirements that banks and investors consider when financing energy transition projects.

Explore & Shape: Technical Assistance for Smart Sustainable and Inclusive Cities (27/05/2024)

Technical Assistance can play a pivotal role in guiding cities towards sustainable solutions. In this Smart Cities Marketplace webinar, experts from ELENA, JASPERS, and GREEN ASSIST will unveil essential strategies to navigate this crucial juncture in urban development.

Explore: Solution Booklet Electric Vehicles and the Grid (27/05/2024)

This Solution Booklet discusses the rise of electric vehicles in Europe with both opportunities and challenges for the energy sector. With around 4.7 million EVs on European roads in 2023, the need for charging infrastructure and grid optimisation has become paramount.

Explore: Green Cities Wiki (29/05/2024)

A comprehensive resource for initiatives, practical knowledge and insights on creating sustainable, inclusive, and climate-neutral cities. If you have any suggestions for additional content and/or improvements to what is here right now, do send a message to: knowledgemanagement@ smartcitiesmarketplace.eu and the Smart Cities Marketplace team will review your suggestions.

Explore: Urban Reverb - Sustainable Partnerships in Focus (22/05/2024)

This podcast episode of Urban Reverb delves into sustainable partnerships driving local solutions for climate-neutral cities across Europe. Experts discuss challenges and opportunities in Smart Cities Marketplace Focus and Discussion groups.

Shape: Deep Retrofitting Energy Performance Contracts for Privately-Owned Single-Family Homes (23/05/2024)

On 4 April 2024, a virtual meeting of the Deep Retrofitting Energy Performance Contracts for Private Households Focus group took place to address the challenges and opportunities surrounding deep retrofitting energy performance contracts for privately owned single-family homes.

Shape: Smart Cities Marketplace, B40 and ICLEI joined forces to advance climate action in the Balkans (27/05/2024)

A key outcome of the workshop was the commitment from participating cities to identify projects for which they seek financing and to submit requests for support through the Smart Cities Marketplace intake process.

Explore: The Smart Cities Marketplace at ChangeNOW 2024 (23/05/2024)

From the Grand Palais Éphémère in Paris offering a striking view of the Eiffel Tower, ChangeNOW 2024 emerged as a key event in the pursuit of sustainability. From 25 to 27 March 2024, the conference served as a hub for 35,000 attendees.

Explore & Shape: Scalable Cities - 9th Call for VISITOR CITIES is now OPEN! (22/05/2024)

The Scalable Cities Secretariat is launching its 9th call for visitor cities to participate in a site visit to Valencia. The city of Valencia was a Lighthouse City of the SCC project MATCH UP and has been selected as the European Green Capital for 2024.

Shape: EIT Urban Mobility’s Main Innovation Call (22/05/2024)

The EIT Urban Mobility’s Main Innovation Call with a budget of EUR 8 million aims to support close-to-market projects, that can develop and test new solutions in real-life demonstrations and attain commercial viability by the end of the project.

Explore: EU Mission Label awarded to 6 SCC cities (23/05/2024)

On 21 March, the EU Mission Label was awarded to 23 cities (6 of which are H2020 Lighthouse Cities) that are part of the EU Mission for Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities. The Label recognises the cities' plans to achieve climate-neutrality already by 2030 and facilitates access to public and private funding.

Explore: Eurocities - Mobility Forum in Utrecht (23/05/2024)

The Eurocities' Mobility Forum in Utrecht emphasised the importance of inclusive urban mobility, focusing on autonomy and connection within communities. Discussions highlighted the need for accessible transportation solutions.

Explore: E-Mobility, Charging Infrastructure and Smart Cities (22/05/2024)

E-mobility is no longer an exotic topic – no news here. Even though some of the governmental incentives have been stopped in various countries, the auto industry and governments have set some ambitious goals for the transition to electric vehicles.

Explore: Heating without Burning - how Cities Can Accelerate the Heat Transition away from Fossil Fuels (22/05/2024)

Phasing out fossil fuels is vital for building the resilient, climate-neutral and just future laid out by the Green Deal. Heating, responsible for over half of Europe’s energy usage, predominantly relies on fossil fuels. We can only create a massive shift away from fossil-based heating with the help of cities.

Explore & Shape: EU Citizens' Engagement Platform (23/05/2024)

The European Commission has recently launched the new Citizens’ Engagement Platform (CEP), an online space for all EU citizens to share their thoughts, exchange ideas and engage in debate about EU policies and actions.

Explore: The European Citizens’ Debate on Energy Efficiency (22/05/2024)

After three insightful weekends of deliberation over the course of three months, the European Citizens’ Panel on Energy Efficiency has concluded. The 150 randomly selected citizens of the Union came together to discuss this pivotal topic.

Shape: CircularPSP - Join the Followers' Network (22/05/2024)

Circular PSP invites all interested cities, and interested organisations to join their follower network to stay updated on the solution concept and to get access to insights and further resources, and later test its innovative solution.

Explore: RISEnergy launched (23/05/2024)

The RISEnergy project, led by Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and supported by the European Energy Research Alliance (EERA), has officially started with the goal of accelerating renewable energy technology development.

Explore: Meet the Ascend Project (22/05/2024)

The ASCEND project aims to deploy Positive Clean Energy Districts in the two Lighthouse cities Lyon and Munich. The cities are working on the full range of issues encountered in cities to reduce energy consumption and carbon footprint.

Explore: European Initiatives at URBIS - The Smart Cities Meetup (22/05/2024)

European projects such as ASCEND, SPARCS, EERA JPSC, CrAFt and NEB-STAR will be attending this year's edition of URBIS: The Smart Cities Meetup taking place in Brno, Czech Republic.

Explore: Best practices book from STARDUST (23/05/2024)

The STARDUST project has released a comprehensive handbook compiling its best practices to assist other cities and stakeholders in learning from the project's experiences across six countries.

Explore: Euroheat & Power Congress 2024 - Scale up, CO₂ down! (03/06/2024)

Attend the exclusive Crash Course for Cities, running in parallel to the Euroheat & Power Congress. This free two-day training program is specially tailored for local authorities and municipality representatives wishing to develop sustainable district heating and cooling!

Explore: How to make renovation more inclusive and beautiful? Renovation projects talk about the New European Bauhaus (04/06/2024)

To achieve 2050 targets, buildings’ energy needs must be reduced massively to improve their energy performance in line with the Energy Efficiency First Principle. To that end, existing buildings need to transform into energy-efficient buildings, with a circular approach and a reduction of whole life-cycle carbon.

Explore: EUSEW Session - Exploring the Heat Map (11/06/2024)

The main objective of the session is to promote different approaches and best practices to manage the heat transition as it is taking place at a moment when member states will have still one year to transpose the Energy Efficiency Directive into national legislation.

Explore: EUSEW Session - Pitching Net-Zero Energy Emission Solutions Implemented by Municipalities (12/06/2024)

This session is designed to address the overarching challenge of transitioning municipalities towards net-zero energy emissions. This includes overcoming various hurdles and barriers associated with implementing sustainable solutions and achieving energy efficiency goals.

Explore: European Sustainable Energy Week 2024 (11/06/2024)

EUSEW returns in 2024 in a hybrid format, in Brussels and online. It comprises a high-level Policy Conference, the EUSEW Awards, and the fifth European Youth Energy Day as well as opportunities to forge connections with the EUSEW community at the Energy Fair.

Explore: EUSEW Session - Turn the Finance on! (13/06/2024)

Hosted by the Smart Cities Marketplace and the Horizon Europe-funded energy renovation initiative oPEN Lab, this session zooms in on a key operational barrier holding the EU back from speeding up the green transition - financing renovation and renewables all across Europe.

Explore: GovTech Connect Pitch Day (13/06/2024)

This session is your chance to discover groundbreaking startups from Germany, France, Austria, Belgium and Ireland, as they look to tackle the most pressing Smart City challenges.

Explore: Hydrogen Valleys Days (17/06/2024)

The event, co-organised by the Clean Hydrogen Partnership and the European Commission, builds on the successful work of the Clean Hydrogen JU. This involves the collaboration with the regions and cities including project development assistance and funding of already 15 hydrogen valleys across Europe.

Explore: Accelerating the Shift Towards Climate Neutrality - Collaborative Strategies for Regional Sustainability Transition (18/06/2024)

This event will discuss the potential of the Transition Super-Lab approach and address how we can drive the transition towards climate neutrality in an inclusive and just manner.

Explore: Valencia Cities Climate Week (25/06/2024)

The objective of this event is not only to celebrate these three different gatherings but to create synergies. Valencia, as a Mediterranean and green capital, constitutes the perfect scenario for coming together and sharing knowledge between the main European actors and civil society.

Explore: Energy Cities Forum "Grafting Cities" in Valencia (26/06/2024)

The conference sets out to reveal what transformations are already in action. Throughout the two days, participants will explore with municipalities the strengths of each region.

Explore: European Urban Resilience Forum (26/06/2024)

The 2024 edition of EURESFO will be built around three key thematic streams and a fourth special thematic stream, each addressing crucial aspects of resilience, sustainable development and recovery.

Explore: SPARCS Final Conference (11/09/2024)

Reflecting on the key learnings, successes, and outcomes, the event will offer meetings, public presentations, and networking opportunities that provide key insights into the work and the solutions we implemented within the project.

Editorial (29/11/2022)

Dear Smart Cities Marketplace Community,

Explore: Urban Reverb - Navigating the World of Procurement (21/03/2024)

Based on the Smart Cities Marketplace solution booklet on public procurement Solution Booklet for Public Procurement in Smart Cities, this episode of Urban Reverb outlines the various aspects of public procurement.

Explore: Portuguese Municipalities Dive into Financing Strategies in Interactive Webinar (06/03/2024)

In a bid to navigate the complexities of implementing sustainable and green city projects, municipal representatives from Portugal congregated for a dynamic one hour webinar.

Explore: Missed the Smart Cities Marketplace Matchmaking Info Session? (06/03/2024)

In case you missed the Smart Cities Marketplace online Matchmaking Info Session on 13 February 2024 - this is your chance to catch up.

Explore: Missed the Smart Cities Marketplace Webinar on Exploring AI Integration in the Energy Sector? (06/03/2024)

This Smart Cities Marketplace webinar focused on the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in reshaping the landscape of smart cities, power systems, and mobility.

Explore & Shape: New Smart Cities Marketplace Focus group Supports 'Small Giants' (06/03/2024)

As part of the Smart Cities Marketplace, a new Focus group has been established seeking to support the local transformation outside of the major European Cities. A majority of European city residents live in small and medium sized cities and towns. Therefore, these towns take the spotlight in this Focus group.

Explore & Shape: Deep Retrofitting Energy Performance Contracts for Private Households Focus Group (21/03/2024)

The primary objective of the Focus group is to address the legal clarity surrounding credit legislation, laying the groundwork for the broader adoption of performance-based deep retrofit solutions. By doing so, they aim to make deep retrofitting feasible and appealing to all private homeowners, fostering sustainability and energy efficiency on a wider scale.

Explore: The State of European Smart Cities has been published! (06/03/2024)

Scalable Cities is thrilled to announce the publication of its report outlining the current state of the art of European smart cities. The report highlights some of the most ambitious and impactful solutions that are also cost-competitive and ready for a wide-scale replication.

Explore: The EuComMeet Project’s Experience (06/03/2024)

The Project EucomMeet – Deliberative Spaces for Democracy, funded under Horizon 2020, is currently organising a final conference to be held on 26 June 2024.

Explore: Deploying a European Mobility Data Space (13/03/2024)

The initiative will cultivate a broad EU ecosystem of data providers and users, facilitating the adoption of common building blocks. The work planned in the framework of the DeployEMDS project's use cases will contribute to the development of innovative services.

Shape & Deal: PROSPECT+ Open Call on Innovative Financing (06/03/2024)

This unique programme serves as a dynamic platform for peer-to-peer learning and exchange, focusing on innovative financing schemes tailored to enhance local and regional energy and climate actions.

Shape & Deal: RAPTOR Call 2024 - European Cities Partner with Startups for Urban Mobility Solutions (13/03/2024)

The RAPTOR 2024 Call was launched on 29 February 2024, inviting startups to propose solutions addressing these city mobility challenges. Supported by technical and business advisors, each city will select promising startups to receive funding.

Explore: Enabling a Data-informed Public Sector - An Introductory Course to BDTI Essentials (06/03/2024)

This free course aims to help public administrations explore the free-of-charge data analytics playground the Big Data Test Infrastructure offers through a practical use case.

Explore: The European Capital of Innovation Awards (14/03/2024)

The 2024 edition of the European Capital of Innovation Awards (iCapital) is now open for submissions. The winner of the 2024 European Capital of Innovation category will receive €1 million.

Explore: The #FOROURPLANET CAMPAIGN (06/03/2024)

Biodiversity loss and climate change are impacting our planet, but also our lives and wellbeing. Together, we can join forces to help restore and protect natural ecosystems and make a real difference #ForOurPlanet.

Explore: 5G in Public Service - EC's Support for Smart Communities Deployment and Replicable Use Cases (06/03/2024)

Let's delve into the 5G for Smart Communities (5GSC) initiative. There are several areas, such as mobility, emergency services (fire, police departments), energy management, and many other public services, which are positively affected by the deployment of a 5G network.

Explore & Shape: Discover the GovTech Connect Boot camps! (13/03/2024)

The GovTech Connect boot camps are a new opportunity for European startups to develop and scale their government technology solutions and tackle key public sector challenges.

Explore & Shape: Coming soon - Citizen-led renovation Open Call (13/03/2024)

Get ready to make a difference in your community's energy future! Phase II of the Citizen-led renovation (CLR) support service launched and will soon publish an Open Call. No matter your community's stage or size, there's valuable support and a network waiting for you.

Shape & Deal: Second Call for Twin Cities (13/03/2024)

NetZeroCities are thrilled to share with you the upcoming launch of the second Call for Twin Cities on 08 April 2024, within the framework of the EU Cities Mission. The Twinning Learning Programme pairs cities (who are not already engaged with the Cities Mission) with Pilot Cities.

Shape: €17 million EU project supports Zaragoza in becoming a climate-neutral city by 2030 (13/03/2024)

REDOL promotes the transition of Zaragoza towards a zero residue city by 2040, thus recycling 100% of the produced urban waste. The project targets to re-use, valorise or transform over 140,000 tons of solid urban waste per year.

Explore: Meet Udene (06/03/2024)

Funded through HORIZON Europe, UDENE kicked off last February 2024 in Ankara (Turkey) determined to build sustainable urban environments and address the challenges posed by increasing urbanisation and the effects of climate change.

Explore: SPARCS & ASCEND present Data-driven Solutions for PEDs at Leipzig Data Week (15/03/2024)

During Leipzig Data Week, the ASCEND and SPARCS projects will organise a joint in-person event to present digital tools and data-driven solutions that enable Positive Energy Districts.

Explore: Meet InterPED (06/03/2024)

The InterPED project, funded by the European Union's HORIZON 2023 programme aims to facilitate Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) by integrating various sectors, utilising renewable energy sources (RES), storage, and excess/waste heat (E/WH) sources.

Explore: How to PED. The +CityxChange Cookbook (06/03/2024)

This “How to PED” cookbook contains experiences, lessons learned, and recommendations gained throughout the five years of the +CityxChange EU Horizon 2020 project, specifically focused on the variety of activities necessary to design and build Positive Energy Districts.

Explore: ASCEND General Assembly Took Place in Munich (20/03/2024)

The ASCEND project organised its second general assembly in Munich between 6 and 8 March 2024. The main goal of the event was to provide oversight of the project's roadmap, activities, scope of work and most importantly the shared ambition to accelerate Positive Clean Energy Districts (PCEDs)

Shape: NEUTRALPATH's Call for Speakers (20/03/2024)

NEUTRALPATH is launching a call for three speakers / visitors cities at the replication-oriented workshop in Dresden which will host the upcoming NEUTRALPATH General Assembly.

Explore: SPARCS Webinar - E-mobility solutions for PEDs (04/04/2024)

Join SPARCS for a transformative webinar on electric mobility solutions for Positive Energy Districts. The event, inspired by the learnings and insights from the SPARCS brings to light the initiatives from the Lighthouse City of Espoo, Finland.

Explore: Focus Group Deep Retrofitting Energy Performance Contracts for Private Households (04/04/2024)

The primary objective of the Smart Cities Marketplace Focus group is to address the legal clarity surrounding credit legislation, laying the groundwork for the broader adoption of performance-based deep retrofit solutions.

Explore: POCITYF General Assembly (15/04/2024)

The Smart Cities and Communities project POCITYF will host its upcoming General Assembly in the Spanish Fellow city Granada between 15 and 17 April 2024.

Clean energy for EU islands forum 2024 (14/05/2024)

This isn't just a conference; it's an opportunity for us to connect, collaborate, and make positive changes together. Participate in interactive sessions, workshops, and discussions focusing on key aspects of island sustainability.

Explore: Partner Event - SPARCS Project Final Event (11/09/2024)

Scalable Cities and SPARCS project are eager to announce the date of the final event that will be jointly organised between 11-12 September 2024 in Espoo, Finland.

Explore: Urban Reverb: REPowerEU (22/01/2024)

This episode of the Urban Reverb podcast discusses the REPower EU initiative. Listen to Paula Pinho, Director of the European Commission's DG Energy, Eckart Würzner the Mayor of Heidelberg and Sofia Barbosa the Director of Regulatory Affairs for a European energy services company (GreenVolt).

Explore: Urban Reverb: The Family (22/01/2024)

"Urban Reverb - The Family" highlights various European initiatives, including the Covenant of Mayors, Scalable Cities, and NetZeroCities, aiming to drive sustainability in cities.

Explore: Watch now - Urban Insights Episode 1 (24/01/2024)

In this video Georg Houben, Project Officer of DG ENER and responsible for the Smart Cities Marketplace, discusses the urgency of addressing climate change, particularly in Europe, where the EU Green Deal aims to make the continent climate-neutral by 2050. The video is available in German and English.

Urban Insights: Cooperation as a Driver of Change in Cities (22/01/2024)

In this episode of Urban Insights, interviewees discuss the importance of cooperation for the transition to smarter, more sustainable and liveable cities. Listen to Han Vandevyvere (SCM), Fons Janssen (European Climate Ambassador for the Netherlands), Stefano Tarantola, (Joint Research Centre of the EC) and Simone van Raaij (Province of South Holland).

Explore: Updated Solution Booklet: PV and Battery (22/01/2024)

This updated booklet emphasises the dynamic role of batteries in the evolving energy landscape, highlighting their potential beyond traditional static installations. With the surge in electric vehicles, car batteries emerge as valuable assets for storing energy.

Explore: Scalable Cities is launching the 5th Call for Visitor Cities for a site visit in Munich (24/01/2024)

Join us in Munich between March 6th - 8th 2024 for an enriching three-day event. This presents an exceptional opportunity for visitor cities to gain insights into the achievements offered by the ASCEND project.

Explore: Scalable Cities Call for Experts on Energy Communities is now OPEN! (24/01/2024)

The call for experts aims to support the Task Group Energy Communities to analyse approaches used by cities in Smart Cities and Communities projects to establish energy communities, emphasising social sustainability and citizen engagement.

Explore: Let’s Make 2024 the Mayors’ Year! (22/01/2024)

This year, European elections will take place and with that a new Commission will be established. The European Green Deal will officially be rooted into European law, with the recent adoption of the remaining components of the ‘Fit for 55’ Package.

Shape: Scalable Cities Call for Experts is now OPEN! (22/01/2024)

Scalable Cities is thrilled to announce a new Call for Experts with five distinctive topics. The Scalable Cities Expert Group is a networking and co-working community of experienced and motivated smart city experts.

Shape: Unlock the path to net zero emissions: New Covenant of Companies Guide on Clean Energy Transition (31/01/2024)

The Covenant of Companies for Climate and Energy has published its new Clean Energy Transition guide. From guidance on how to develop clean energy transition plans to addressing sector-specific challenges, the guide provides a comprehensive roadmap for EU enterprises.

Explore: Scalable Cities Announces Calendar of Events for the City Coordinators Group (18/01/2024)

Scalable Cities would like to present a new calendar of events for the City Coordinators Group. The Group gathers cities to address specific challenges and create a space for the co-design of shared solutions.

Explore: Welcome to the Govtech Connect startup survey (24/01/2024)

GovTech Connect is embarking on an ambitious journey as a pilot project within the European Commission's DG Connect, aiming to revolutionise the digitisation of the public sector and advance the Green Transition in Europe.

Deal: CircularPSP – Launch of Tender (22/01/2024)

The EU pre-commercial procurement project CircularPSP launched a €5.64 million tender (Contract Notice and PIN on TED) for Suppliers to design, develop and test an innovative ‘circular economy solution’ (CE-solution).

Explore: Citizen-led renovation Initiative Publishes Factsheets about Pilot Countries (24/01/2024)

The project Citizen-Led renovation aims to empower energy communities and put citizens in the driver’s seat for energy-saving renovation projects. In the course of the project, four energy communities in four different countries are assisted to deliver citizen-led energy renovations and renewable energy installations.

Shape: SMCNetZero Blog: Illuminating the Path to Energy Efficiency (22/01/2024)

The SMCNetZero project has recently identified some significant roadblocks on the path to achieving net-zero in SMCs. When it comes to energy efficiency in small and medium-sized cities, there is a significant need to break down silo thinking.

Explore: Webinar - Solutions for Low Noise Road Surfaces (06/02/2024)

The Commission is promoting a webinar to explain to local authorities, in simple and practical terms, what the possibilities are to use low-noise road surfaces, thanks to several past EU-funded projects and solutions engineered.

Explore: Join the Smart Cities Marketplace Matchmaking Info Session (13/02/2024)

Register for the info session and learn all about the matchmaking opportunities of the Marketplace as well as the ongoing call for applications and the Urban Transition Challenge.

Explore: Webinar - Como os municípios podem beneficiar de consultoria gratuita da Comissão Europeia? (28/02/2024)

O Smart Cities Marketplace, da Comissão Europeia, é uma iniciativa independente e não comercial, apoiada pela Comissão Europeia, que junta cidades, empresas e investidores com o propósito de tornar as cidades e comunidades mais resilientes, sustentáveis e inclusivas.

Explore: STARDUST Final Conference (28/02/2024)

Scalable Cities project STARDUST will be hosting its final event in Pamplona, Spain. STARDUST project is part of the Smart Cities and Communities family of project under the Scalable Cities.

Explore: ASCEND General Assembly (06/03/2024)

The ASCEND project organises its second General Assembly event which will be held in Munich. The event will be filled with plenary sessions and workshops focused on the progress and achievements of ASCEND Lighthouse and Multiplier cities in their quest to develop and replicate Positive Clean Energy Districts.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace @ 11th Procura+ Conference (13/03/2024)

This year the Smart Cities Marketplace will present at the 11th Procura+ conference covering the topic of "Procuring Smart Solutions".

Explore: Conference for Mayors (15/03/2024)

The Government of Flanders will gather 550 mayors and representatives of local governments to the conference “Translating the EU green deal to local action”, in Brussels, within the framework of the Belgian EU Presidency.

Explore: CHANGENOW 2024 CITIES PROGRAM (27/03/2024)

In the framework of its yearly summit gathering more than 35,000 impact changemakers from 120 countries, ChangeNOW has developed a dedicated day to mayors and cities representatives, the Sustainable Cities Program, where the Smart Cities Marketplace will join with experts and a stand.

Explore & Shape: Launch of the Green Cities Wiki on the Smart Cities Marketplace Website (28/11/2023)

The Smart Cities Marketplace is excited to announce the launch of the online version of the Smart City Guidance Package on its website called Green Cities Wiki.

Explore & Shape: Smart Cities Marketplace Financing Masterclass (28/11/2023)

The Smart Cities Marketplace's next financing masterclass will take place on 25 January 2024, in an online format. Join us!

Explore: Urban Reverb - What's new? (24/11/2023)

In this episode of Urban Reverb, important changes to the Smart Cities Marketplace such as the online wiki, Focus- and Discussion Groups as well as the matchmaking process are discussed.

Explore: Successful SCWEC showcases climate-neutral and smart cities initiatives (23/11/2023)

The Smart Cities Marketplace played a pivotal role, hosting a 120 square metre booth that brought together a diverse array of partners, totalling 31 platforms, initiatives, projects, and seven EC services – literally being the single booth bringing together the European dimension.

Explore: SCEWC 2023 congress session - Creating irresistible climate-neutral cities (24/11/2023)

Speakers from European cities and organisations discussed the pivotal role of cities in climate action. They highlighted the need for local-level initiatives and emphasised the importance of financial support.

Explore: SCEWC 2023 agora session - Cities challenges 2023 (23/11/2023)

During the agora session, speakers from European cities and organisations discussed the crucial role of cities in climate action. They emphasised the need for local-level initiatives.

Explore: SCEWC 2023 booth session - Matching needs with solutions (24/11/2023)

The booth session began with discussions on the EU Green Deal and the Smart Cities Marketplace's role in aiding smaller cities. Various presentations highlighted success stories and challenges in decarbonisation efforts, followed by group discussions to identify needs and potential solutions in digital mobility and energy-related topics.

Explore: SCEWC 2023 booth session - Quick wins through collaboration (24/11/2023)

This discussion stressed the importance of collaboration and cooperation among organisations dedicated to creating smart and climate-neutral cities, to foster more sustainable urban environments.

Explore: SCEWC 2023 Deep Retrofit Focus Group (23/11/2023)

This is a summary of the on-site meeting of the Smart Cities Marketplace's Deep Retrofit Focus Group at the Smart City World Expo in Barcelona in October 2023.

Explore: SCM webinar explores hydrogen integration (24/11/2023)

In response to the pressing challenges of urban decarbonisation, a recent webinar delved into the potential of hydrogen in city energy frameworks. It was organised by the Smart Cities Marketplace as part of the Urban Transition Challenge for Smart Cities 2023.

Explore: SCM webinar explores strategies for decarbonising mobility (24/11/2023)

On 24 October, in an insightful webinar “Empowering Cities - Decarbonising Mobility through Strategies, Success Stories, and Innovation” hosted by the Smart Cities Marketplace, experts and city representatives came together to discuss innovative strategies for decarbonising urban mobility.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace @ European Urban Resilience Forum (24/11/2023)

In addition to a stand presence in the EURESFO Marketplace, the Smart Cities Marketplace hosted a session titled ‘How to Finance Smart and Climate-Resilient Projects’, which took place during EURESFO’s Resilience Investment and Financing Forum on 19 October 2023. It was organised by consortium partner ICLEI - Local Governments for Sustainability.

Explore: Empowering Cities: Smart Cities Marketplace and EDIHs Drive Digital Transformation (24/11/2023)

In a session held in October at the EU Week of Regions on 10 October 2023, the Smart Cities Marketplace, and the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) converged to present their roles as driving forces in the city journey towards climate neutrality.

Shape: The 3rd Call for Proposals of the Scalable Cities Action Grant is now open! (23/11/2023)

The Scalable Cities Action Grant is a financial tool to support the replication of measures already successfully tested in Smart Cities and Communities projects.

Explore: The First Scalable Cities Café (24/11/2023)

On October 30th, The Scalable Cities Secretariat hosted a “Scalable Cities Café”, the first of a series of online events aimed at exploring the activities that the Secretariat coordinates to foster cross-collaboration between stakeholders and cities.

Explore: Scalable Cities at the Smart City Expo World Congress (23/11/2023)

Between the 7th and 9th of November, a large delegation from the Scalable Cities Secretariat, alongside several projects from the SCC community attended the Smart City Expo World Congress in Barcelona.

Explore: Wondering what the ASCEND project has been up to? (23/11/2023)

November brought a highlight as ASCEND proudly participated in the joint EU representation at the Smart City Expo World Congress in Barcelona from 7 to 9 November. Alongside 30 other projects, initiatives and DGs, the event provided a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, engage in knowledge sharing, and learn from other projects’ experiences.

Explore: Photo contest - Every1 can contribute to the energy transition (24/11/2023)

The EU-funded Every1 project has launched a photo contest under the motto “Every1 can contribute to the energy transition”. The project is calling for people to participate in the energy transition, green digital technologies and further energy transition motifs.

Explore: Mobility data spaces are taking off (24/11/2023)

Data spaces are transitioning from research projects, use case Proofs of Concept (PoCs) and limited demonstrations, to deployable and operational platforms. But what are these data spaces?

Explore: Empowering small and medium-sized cities (24/11/2023)

In the global pursuit of a sustainable future, small and medium-sized cities (SMCs) are stepping into the spotlight as key players in achieving net-zero emissions.

Explore: How can you measure innovation in a city? (24/11/2023)

Statistically, 80% of you will be reading this as a resident of a city. So, think of the city you are in – does it have a net zero target? And if so when does the city plan to be net zero? A highly ambitious 2030, or a more relaxed 2050?

Shape: SPARCS unveils comprehensive toolkit (24/11/2023)

Are you gearing up to host a startup competition and feeling overwhelmed by the many details that you need to manage? Look no further than the Startup Competition Toolkit from SPARCS, your comprehensive guide to organising a successful event that meets your objectives.

Deal: CEF Digital – A third call opening (24/11/2023)

A third CEF Digital call, worth over €240 million, opened with a deadline to apply by 20 February 2024. It aims to strengthen the deployment of ultra-fast, secure and sustainable digital infrastructures.

Explore: Launch of Focus Group on Smart Heating and Cooling (01/12/2023)

On behalf of the European Commission’s Smart Cities Marketplace, Euroheat & Power, ICLEI Europe and the RHC-ETIP Platform are launching a Focus Group on the topic of ‘Renewable Heating and Cooling’ in Smart Cities.

Explore: Webinar - Business models and financing for PCEDs (05/12/2023)

The primary aim of the webinar is to boost the collaboration and knowledge sharing on financing between ASCEND and NEUTRALPATH cities and enhance the EU-level collaboration with Scalable Cities and the SCC community. The registration for the webinar will be available through ASCEND and NEUTRALPATH social media channels.

Explore: Scalable Cities Roadshow - Financial Language for Public Administrations within the Smart City (11/01/2024)

Get ready for the Roadshow! Scalable Cities is launching an empowering financial capacity-building programme designed to support cities to acquire the knowledge they need to scale up their projects, obtain funding to boost their climate neutral strategies.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace Financing Masterclass (25/01/2024)

Once your project is submitted, you have the opportunity to participate in a free Masterclass focused on the bankability of the projects, and you will receive relevant insights and expertise from different stakeholders, including investors.

Explore: Conference for Mayors (15/03/2024)

The Government of Flanders will gather 550 mayors and representatives of local governments to the conference “Translating the EU green deal to local action” in Brussels, within the framework of the Belgian EU Presidency.

Explore: Solution Booklet for Public Procurement in Smart Cities (18/09/2023)

The Smart Cities Marketplace team is excited to introduce a new solution booklet dedicated to public procurement. It is available in English, French, and German, ensuring a wider reach and accessibility for stakeholders and decision-makers.

Explore: Unlocking Resilience - A Guide to Financing Solutions for Small-to-Middle Sized Cities (18/09/2023)

In addition to the solution booklet on public procurement, the Smart Cities Marketplace team published a Solution Booklet on financing solutions for small-to-middle sized cities.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace and Partners at Smart City Expo World Congress, Barcelona (31/08/2023)

From 7 to 9 November, the Smart Cities Marketplace team will take part in the Smart City Expo World Congress. Come visit the stand of more than 30 EU initiatives and projects and use the opportunity to take part in this year’s Smart Cities Marketplace forum.

Explore & Shape: Smart Cities Marketplace Discussion and Focus groups - First Call for Topics (14/09/2023)

The Smart Cities Marketplace invites everyone to join an open call for topics related to sustainable and smart cities. The SCM will facilitate voluntary Discussion and Focus groups around the selected topics. Join us!

Explore: Webinar - Empowering Cities - Decarbonising Mobility through Strategies, Success Stories, and Innovation (07/09/2023)

Together with the Smart Cities Marketplace, embark on the journey to sustainable urban mobility, hear about city success stories, master project financing, and discover innovative solutions on 24 October, 10-12 CEST.

Explore: Webinar - Introduction to Navigating Hydrogen Integration in Smart Cities (07/09/2023)

Join the Smart Cities Marketplace webinar on Hydrogen on 26 October, 10:00 - 12:00 CEST. In the face of the challenges posed by urban decarbonisation and the selection of sustainable energy solutions to effectively combat it, recognising the significance of hydrogen.

Explore: Transforming Urban Mobility - City of El Escorial and Don Cicleto Secure Technical Support from the Smart Cities Marketplace (21/09/2023)

In a groundbreaking meeting held on September 18, 2023, Don Cicleto, a pioneering mobility scale-up in Spain, joined forces with the city of El Escorial and the Smart Cities Marketplace to transform urban commuting patterns.

Shape: Share Your Insights - Help Shape the Smart Cities Marketplace Website (07/09/2023)

The Smart Cities Marketplace team values your input in making our website even better! We invite you to provide your valuable feedback and suggestions to enhance your experience.

Explore: Matchmaking Info Session - Recording available (14/09/2023)

The Smart Cities Marketplace hosted an informative session about their Matchmaking services on 7 September 2023. The Matchmaking services provide technical, financial, legal and governance-related support at no cost to cities and other stakeholders - so what are you waiting for?!

Explore: Propagating City Renewal at District Level - which Methods to Use? (07/09/2023)

A Scalable Cities Session at the Energy Cities Forum in Modena: Are you wondering how district approaches can help cities make a leap in energy transition, with whom to build the strategy, and where to start?

Explore: Small Giants Momentum Continues to Build (13/09/2023)

Small Giants Focus Group launched: The Small Giants initiative has been confirmed as the latest Focus Group as part of the Smart Cities Marketplace's community.

Shape: From “Global Boiling” to another Winter of Energy Crisis - Sustaining the Cities Energy Saving Sprint (13/09/2023)

As we emerge from one of the hottest summers on record, we must start preparing for another winter strained by Russia’s war in Ukraine and the consequent energy crisis. The growing hazards of climate change experienced this summer are exerting mounting pressure on local governments across Europe.

Explore: Energy Cities Annual Forum in Modena, Italy (07/09/2023)

The Energy Cities Annual Forum gathers many cities from across Europe and offers a rich agenda. This will be a unique session co-organised with projects ASCEND, Cities4PEDs and the Affordable Housing Initiative.

Explore: Every1 - Overview of Ecosystems (07/09/2023)

The Every1 Project recently published a Structured Overview of Ecosystems affected by the digitalisation of the Energy Transition. The report investigates how stakeholders are interconnected in ecosystems and the analysis results in a structured overview of the stakeholder networks' goals, members, activities, and outreach channels.

Shape: EP Think Thank publishes Guide to EU Funding 2023 Edition (07/09/2023)

The European Union extends financial support to regional and local authorities, NGOs, businesses, professionals, and citizens through an extensive array of funds. The European Parliamentary Research Service has compiled a comprehensive 'Guide to EU funding,'.

Explore: Curious about how Member States Have Developed legal Frameworks for Energy Communities? (13/09/2023)

The Energy Communities Repository has collected data from the European Union Member States on their existing policies and regulations for energy communities in the context of the Clean Energy Package.

Explore: Joint closing conference of the Energy Communities Repository and Rural Energy Community Advisory Hub (13/09/2023)

The closing conference of the Energy Communities Repository and Rural Energy Community Advisory Hub will display inspirational examples from energy communities that have received technical assistance under the RECAH or ECR projects.

Explore: +CityxChange Final event with Scalable Cities - 2nd Call for Visitor Cities is now open! (03/10/2023)

This is an extraordinary opportunity for visitor cities to acquire invaluable insights into the cutting-edge solutions offered by the +CityxChange project. Immerse yourself in the firsthand experience of witnessing how these innovative solutions have been implemented in the demo sites, making significant contributions to the development of Positive Energy Districts.

Explore: The Smart Cities Marketplace at the European Week of Regions and Cities (09/10/2023)

Come and see us at the Smart Cities Marketplace stand and visit both of our sessions "EDIHs and Smart Cities Marketplace as catalysts of digitalization" on 10/10/2023, 09:30-10:30 CEST and "Access to finance for the local energy transition: how to move away from subsidies?" on 12/10/2023, 11:30 - 13:00 CEST.

Explore: Interested in 5G for Smart Communities? Join the Commission’s Conference on 11 October! (11/10/2023)

The conference will offer informative presentations by the European Commission on the 5G for Smart Communities action and the upcoming third CEF call for proposals, which is expected to open in October 2023.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace @ European Urban Resilience Forum (18/10/2023)

The Smart Cities Marketplace will host a session as part of the EURESFO Resilience Investment and Financing Forum on 19/10/2023, 12:00 - 13:15 CEST, titled ‘Financing smart and climate-resilient solutions’ which will delve into the crucial nexus of smart cities and resilience.

Explore: Webinar - Empowering Cities - Decarbonising Mobility through Strategies, Success Stories, and Innovation (24/10/2023)

The multi-disciplinary approach to the decarbonisation of mobility, facilitated by the Smart Cities Marketplace team, will enable you to learn from thought leaders, cities, and innovators, providing you with the right tools to shape cities and the way we move.

Explore: RE-energising Europe - Discussions, high-level Panels, Poster Session and Field Visit Organised by 7 EU-Funded Projects! (24/10/2023)

Taking place in Brussels (Atelier 29) on 24-25 October, the event is bringing together speakers from EU institutions, project representatives and key players of the energy market.

Explore: Covenant of Mayors Investment Forum 2023 (25/10/2023)

Join the 2023 edition of the Covenant of Mayors Investment Forum - Energy Efficiency Finance Market Place that will take place in Brussels. The Smart Cities Marketplace will participate with a session "The role of Positive Energy Districts in the ongoing energy transition in urban areas" on 25/10/2023, 13:30 - 14:30 CEST. Discover the pivotal role of Positive Energy Districts in urban energy transition.

Explore: Webinar - Introduction to Navigating Hydrogen Integration in Smart Cities (26/10/2023)

Find out how hydrogen can be part of a city’s energy system, the lessons learned from hydrogen projects and its financing options.

Explore: Smart City Expo World Congress & Smart Cities Marketplace Forum (07/11/2023)

Held in Barcelona since 2011, the Smart City Expo World Congress (SCEWC) is the world’s biggest and most influential event for cities and urban innovation.Please note that the annual Smart Cities Marketplace Forum will also take place at the Smart City Expo World Congress this year.

Explore: Joint closing conference of the Energy Communities Repository and Rural Energy Community Advisory Hub (10/11/2023)

The closing conference of the Energy Communities Repository and Riral Energy Community Advisory Hub will display inspirational examples from energy communities that have received technical assistance under the RECAH or ECR projects.

Explore: Smart Cities Marketplace Financing Master Class (16/11/2023)

The master class will be organised following the Smart City Expo World Congress in Barcelona on 07-09 November 2023. In the context of the Smart Cities Marketplace matchmaking services, representatives of city administrations and smart city project developers are invited to submit their project ideas.

Explore: POWER UP YOUR CITY - A Summit on Policy Guidelines for Positive Energy Districts (16/11/2023)

This Making City event is dedicated to policy guidelines for Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) and is aimed at professionals implementing carbon-free energy solutions. You can learn from the lighthouse city of Oulu and gain valuable insights into PEDs implementation, best practices and lessons learned.