Eurocities Awards 2024
Meet the nine nominated cities for the 2024 Eurocities Awards, showcased in Cluj-Napoca from May 29-31, during the Annual Conference.
Join us in spotlighting the cities shaping a sustainable and innovative future.
This May 2024, the city of Cluj-Napoca will host the Eurocities Awards, a beacon for urban innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity.
These awards highlight the transformative efforts of European cities in creating more livable, resilient, and progressive environments.
Discover the essence and ambition behind the Eurocities Awards, and what makes this event a pivotal gathering for Europe’s urban future.
May 29-31, 2024
Cluj-Napoca
About the Awards
The Eurocities Awards 2024 shines a spotlight on the extraordinary achievements of cities that are leading the way in addressing some of the most pressing urban challenges of our time.
From groundbreaking green initiatives to cutting-edge technological advancements and inclusive community engagement strategies, the awards recognize and honor the efforts of cities that are not just planning for the future but are actively shaping it.
History and Purpose of the Eurocities Awards
A Tradition of Urban Innovation
The Eurocities Awards celebrate the innovative spirit of European cities, spotlighting exceptional initiatives in sustainability, social inclusion, and urban development.
Launched as a highlight of the Eurocities network, these awards have grown into a prestigious acknowledgment of cities’ efforts to improve citizens’ lives and tackle urban challenges creatively.
Delve into memorable moments from past editions, showcasing groundbreaking projects and inspiring words from urban leaders.
Witness how cities across Europe have pioneered solutions to complex challenges, setting a new standard for the rest of the world.
“Through innovation, we build the cities of tomorrow,” echoes from the previous ceremonies, encapsulating the spirit of the Eurocities Awards.
Inspiring Progress and Collaboration
At their core, the Eurocities Awards aim to:
Highlight leading urban innovations.
Encourage knowledge exchange and collaboration among cities.
Motivate cities to pursue impactful projects.
Offer cities international recognition for their achievements.
Shaping the Urban Future
By recognizing outstanding city-led initiatives, the Eurocities Awards inspire cities across Europe to adopt innovative solutions, driving forward sustainable and inclusive urban futures.
Discover more about the awards’ impact and the visionary cities leading the way on FutureHubs.eu.
Event Highlights from Past Eurocities Awards
Urban Mobility Program in Berlin:
Berlin unveiled an ambitious urban mobility plan aimed at reducing city traffic by 30% and increasing public transportation usage, setting a new standard for urban transport.
Amsterdam’s Circular Economy Milestone:
Amsterdam’s Circular Economy Milestone: Amsterdam celebrated achieving its 2025 target for circular economy initiatives two years ahead of schedule, showcasing the city’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Innovative Community Engagement in Helsinki:
Helsinki introduced an AI-powered platform that successfully integrated citizen ideas into city planning, highlighting the power of technology in democratic processes.
Smart Parks Initiative in Barcelona:
This initiative transformed public parks into smart, energy-efficient spaces using IoT devices to manage water and lighting, enhancing public spaces while conserving resources.
Copenhagen’s Climate-Neutral District:
Showcased a pioneering project where an entire district operates on renewable energy, serving as a living example of achievable climate neutrality in urban settings.
Lisbon’s Waste-to-Energy Program:
A game-changing project that converts household waste into clean energy, significantly reducing landfill use and generating electricity for local communities.
The Theme for 2024: Innovation and Sustainability
Pioneering Urban Futures
The Eurocities Awards 2024 embrace the theme of “Innovation and Sustainability,” spotlighting cities at the forefront of creating sustainable, inclusive, and future-ready urban environments.
This theme reflects the urgent need for cities to integrate innovative solutions with sustainable practices to address the challenges of today and tomorrow.
Focus Areas:
Advancing urban innovation ecosystems.
Promoting sustainable food systems.
Enhancing civic engagement through creative election campaigns.
Driving Change
The 2024 theme champions cities pioneering the path towards a greener, more resilient, and equitable urban landscape, inspiring a collective movement towards a sustainable future.
Explore this theme’s depth and the cities leading by example on FutureHubs.eu.
The Perfect Host for Eurocities Awards 2024
A Hub of Culture and Innovation
Cluj-Napoca, known for its rich cultural heritage and dynamic innovation scene, is the chosen stage for the Eurocities Awards 2024.
This city exemplifies the perfect blend of historical depth and forward-thinking initiatives, making it an ideal backdrop for celebrating urban innovation and sustainability.
Spotlight on Cluj-Napoca
Cluj-Napoca’s commitment to progress, combined with its vibrant life, positions it as a beacon for urban development and collaborative growth, embodying the spirit of the Eurocities Awards.
Discover Cluj-Napoca’s unique charm and its role in shaping the future of European cities on FutureHubs.eu.
Participating Cities: Eurocities Awards 2024 Contenders
Spotlight on Urban Innovation
The cities competing for the Eurocities Awards 2024 each bring a distinct vision and commitment to urban innovation and sustainability.
These cities are at the forefront of implementing groundbreaking projects that address contemporary challenges, setting examples for future urban development.
Discover the Contenders
Explore the stories, initiatives, and unique approaches of the participating cities that are leading the way in shaping a sustainable and inclusive future for all.
Shaping the Urban Future
Madrid – Centre for Innovation in Circular Economy: A pioneering initiative transforming the city’s productive and social fabric towards sustainability, digitalisation, and circularity.
Marseille – Provence Africa Connect: A multi-stakeholder initiative aimed at fostering shared prosperity between Europe and Africa by attracting African talents and supporting innovative projects.
Porto – A Magnet for Talent (TERA strategy): Designed to attract, develop, and retain talent, enhancing Porto’s work ecosystem through collaboration between talent, academia, and companies.
Bordeaux – Establishing a Food Policy Council: The first French territory to adopt a holistic approach in creating food policies that align with the needs of the territory and its citizens towards sustainability.
Dortmund – Empowering Children for Sustainable Food: Focusing on climate-friendly and healthy eating in municipal institutions, particularly day care centers for children.
Pau – La Ceinture Verte (The Green Belt): An integrated approach to accelerate the transition towards short food circuits, supporting independent producers and promoting local brands.
Gdansk – Don’t Sleep or You Will Be Outvoted: An educational campaign aimed at improving electoral turnout and making informed voting decisions.
Rotterdam – Wijk aan Zet: A new electoral model for local governance that enables citizens to have a say in decisions affecting their lives without the need for political party affiliation.
Zurich – Information Campaigns to Reduce Barriers to Naturalisation: Sending regular information letters to eligible individuals about the benefits of Swiss citizenship and understanding the obstacles to obtaining it.
Event Insights: Eurocities Awards 2024 in Cluj-Napoca
Dive Deep into the Heart of Urban Transformation
The Eurocities Awards 2024, set against the backdrop of Cluj-Napoca’s vibrant urban landscape, offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore, discuss, and celebrate the forefront of urban innovation and sustainability.
From May 29-31, join us at the Grand Hotel Italia and Radisson Blu for a series of engaging events, thought-provoking discussions, and networking opportunities designed to inspire and facilitate the exchange of groundbreaking ideas among Europe’s urban leaders.
What to Expect:
Day 1 Highlights: The event kicks off with exclusive sessions tailored for Romanian cities, followed by newcomer orientations and speed networking sessions, culminating in a welcoming dinner that sets the stage for collaboration and exchange.
Day 2 Insights: The official opening features notable figures, including Emil Boc, Mayor of Cluj-Napoca, and Burkhard Jung, Mayor of Leipzig and President of Eurocities, alongside high-level keynote speakers.
Focus sessions delve into themes like climate neutrality, resilience, innovation, and the green and digital transition, offering fresh perspectives on urban challenges and solutions.
Political Tracks & Gala Dinner: Special invitation-only tracks address democratic challenges and resilience, paving the way for strategic dialogues on urban transformation.
The evening celebrates excellence with the Gala Dinner & Eurocities Awards ceremony, followed by a stunning drone show and an optional informal afterparty.
Day 3 Engagements: The final day begins with the Women Leaders Circle, leading into the General Assembly and panel debates.
The closing plenary wraps up the conference, followed by exclusive site visits across Cluj-Napoca, offering a hands-on look at the city’s innovative projects and cultural heritage.
Live Coverage & Interactive Content:
Whether in person or online, the Eurocities Awards 2024 promises to be a milestone event, showcasing the very best of urban innovation. For a detailed schedule, speaker information, and more about the awards, visit our dedicated Event Insights section on FutureHubs.eu. Together, let’s shape the future of European cities.
Awards Categories for the Eurocities Awards 2024
The Eurocities Awards 2024 shines a spotlight on the remarkable initiatives undertaken by cities across Europe to address contemporary urban challenges through innovation and sustainability.
This year, the awards are segmented into three distinct categories, each designed to recognize and honor cities that are setting new benchmarks in urban development.
1. Innovation Ecosystems: Attracting and Retaining Talent
This category celebrates cities that have successfully created vibrant innovation ecosystems. These cities have implemented strategies that not only attract but also retain a diverse pool of talent, fostering an environment where creativity and innovation flourish.
By bridging the gap between academia, industry, and community, these cities ensure a sustainable growth model that nurtures talent and supports their transition into influential innovators and industry leaders.
2. Sustainable Food Systems: Empowering People
Focuses on cities that are revolutionizing the way we produce, distribute, and consume food.
Recognizing the pivotal role of sustainable food systems in urban development, this category honors initiatives that prioritize local and sustainable agriculture, reduce food waste, and ensure that all citizens have access to healthy, nutritious food.
These cities exemplify how integrating sustainability into food systems can empower communities, bolster local economies, and mitigate environmental impacts.
3. Creative Election Campaigns: Mobilising Citizens
Dedicated to cities that have demonstrated exceptional creativity and effectiveness in engaging and mobilizing citizens around the electoral process.
Whether through innovative use of technology, educational campaigns, or community-driven initiatives, these cities have increased voter turnout, enhanced democratic participation, and fostered a more informed and engaged citizenry.
This category acknowledges the importance of civic engagement in shaping responsive, accountable, and inclusive governance.
From May 29-31, join us at the Grand Hotel Italia and Radisson Blu for a celebration of sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity.
Navigating The Eurocities Awards: A Comprehensive Guide
Embark on a journey of discovery with FutureHubs.eu as we showcase the Eurocities Awards 2024. This guide offers you a front-row seat to the innovations driving Europe’s cities forward, featuring profiles on nominated cities, key event highlights, and expert insights into sustainable urban development. Stay connected with the latest in city innovation and sustainability.
- Event Insights: Get detailed information about the Eurocities Awards 2024, including the event schedule, keynote speakers, and panel discussions that will explore the latest trends in urban development.
- City Showcases: Discover the inspiring stories behind the nine shortlisted cities, their innovative projects, and the visionary people behind them. Learn how these cities are making remarkable contributions to sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity.
- Innovation Spotlights: Dive deep into the specific areas highlighted in this year’s awards: talent attraction and retention, sustainable food systems, and creative approaches to mobilizing voters. Explore case studies, interviews, and in-depth analyses of the winning initiatives.
- Networking Opportunities: Find out how you can connect with urban leaders, policymakers, innovators, and fellow enthusiasts who are passionate about creating better cities for tomorrow.
- Interactive Features: Engage with interactive maps, virtual tours of the nominated cities, and polls that allow you to voice your opinion on the most impactful urban innovations.
Awards Categories
1. Innovation Ecosystems
2. Sustainable Food Systems
3. Creative Election Campaigns
In the quest for sustainable urban development and the preservation of our environment, the importance of acknowledging cities that set the benchmark with their inventive projects is paramount.
Eurocities has proudly unveiled the nine cities that have made the cut for the distinguished 2024 Eurocities Awards. These cities are poised to be celebrated at the much-anticipated Annual Conference slated to take place in Cluj-Napoca from May 29-31, 2024. Demonstrating remarkable innovation and the power of collaboration, these selected cities serve as a beacon of inspiration for urban areas globally.
This year’s Eurocities Awards will cast a spotlight on the remarkable capabilities of its member cities in key areas such as:
- Fostering innovation ecosystems to attract and retain top talent,
- Developing sustainable food systems that empower communities,
- Launching creative election campaigns aimed at mobilizing citizens.
Through these awards, Eurocities not only honors outstanding urban achievements but also sets a stage for sharing best practices and encouraging further advancements across Europe.
– FutureHubs.eu
Vote and Share:
Let Your Voice Be Heard:
Which City Wins Your Heart for Innovation & Sustainability?
Join FutureHubs.eu’s symbolic poll for Eurocities Awards 2024.
At FutureHubs.eu, we’re not just spectators; we’re active participants in shaping the future of urban innovation.
Dive into our unofficial polls and cast your vote for the city projects that inspire you the most.
Whether it’s groundbreaking sustainability initiatives, cutting-edge technology, or transformative community programs, your opinion matters!