The European Urban Initiative – Innovative Actions is proud to announce its second Call for Proposals, with an indicative budget of EUR 120 millions from the European Regional Development Fund. The call is a golden opportunity for innovative projects that align with three crucial topics, listed below.

Call for Proposals Now Open

For the second round of the European Urban Initiative – Innovative Actions (EUI-IA) Call for Proposals, a substantial EUR 120 million from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) budget has been earmarked. Each project eligible for funding can receive a maximum of EUR 5 million co-financing from the ERDF. The projects are expected to be implemented within a maximum period of 3.5 years.

Focus on Three Topics

The Call for Proposals seeks to fund projects that deliver real-world solutions under the following three topics:

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1. Greening Cities

Under the ‘Greening Cities’ theme, projects will focus on experimenting with and implementing innovative solutions for green infrastructure in European cities. The aim is to address:

• biodiversity,
• pollution,
• resource, and climate challenges

while fostering synergy with other key policy areas. The projects are expected to contribute to Cohesion policy investments related to green and just transitions, with a focus on affordability for all.

2. Sustainable Tourism

The ‘Sustainable tourism’ topic aims to support the long-term green and digital transformation and resilience of the tourism ecosystem. By introducing unique solutions and comprehensive policies for sustainable tourism promotion and management, cities can serve as examples for smaller towns, villages, and regions. This can help reduce overdependence on tourism and promote diversification into other sectors, boosting the local economy.

3. 3. Harnessing Talent in Shrinking Cities

The ‘Harnessing talent in shrinking cities’ topic targets regions identified by the European Commission in the ‘Harnessing talent in Europe’s regions’ communication. The regions will be supported in testing new solutions to retain and attract talent.

The call seeks integrated pilot projects involving local communities in urban-scale experiments. The projects should focus on addressing economic, social, and environmental dimensions of demographic challenges, inspiring Cohesion policy programs in urban areas.

Exploring the EUI-IA Guidance

For detailed guidance on EUI-IA and its context, visit EUI-IA Guidance. Here, you can familiarize yourself with the project’s framework, rules, procedures, and much more.

Get Ready with the Self-Assessment Tool

Before submitting your project proposal, use the “self-assessment tool” to ensure you meet key requirements and address urban challenges effectively.

Access the tool here.

Apply Now Through EUI’s Electronic Exchange Platform

The application process is 100 % paperless and streamlined through the EUI Electronic Exchange Platform (EEP). We encourage applicants to register early and create their Application Form. This step-by-step process includes valuable information to help structure and design your project proposal effectively.

Access the application pack here.

Don’t miss this chance to be part of innovative projects that can make a difference.

Apply today and help shape the future of European cities!

Learn more details:

European Urban Initiative