Cities in the member states of the European Union who wish to exchange with a city facing similar challenges in another global region are encouraged to apply for the International Urban Cooperation (IUC) city-to-city cooperation programme on sustainable urban development. The programme aims to foster links between EU cities and those in Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, and North America. Through the programme, local leaders will be able to connect and gain new perspectives on pressing sustainable development issues.

Successful candidates will be paired with a city that faces related challenges, allowing both parties to cooperate, build connections and share knowledge. Representatives from each city will take part in study tours, staff exchanges, trainings and seminars, etc. and will develop together a local action plan to drive sustainable urban development in the selected area.

By joining the IUC city-to-city cooperation, your city will:

COMMIT – Cooperate for at least 18 months with your international peers, allocate resources and time to develop a successful cooperation which will last beyond the lifetime of this programme

LEARN - Get access to new ways of approaching challenges and benefit from a wider pool of good practices to draw upon; receive support in identifying innovative business models for financing local action

SHARE - Help others to solve issues by sharing your own experiences and relaying knowledge

EXCHANGE - Open your city to dialogue and partnership with new global peers, and relevant stakeholders (public and private)

SHOWCASE - Profile your best practices and achievements internationally

IMPLEMENT - Work with new partners to make your vision of sustainable urban development a reality through developing a Local Action Plan for sustainable urban development in a sector of your choice

Deadline for EU cities' applications: March 8, 2018 (Thursday night at midnight CET)

• What are EU cities committing to? 
• Who can apply?
• IUC city-to-city cooperation application form
• FAQ

For more information, please contact coordination-unit@iuc-europe.eu