European Capital of Innovation Awards 2027 open for applications

Cities across Europe are being invited to show their most forward-thinking ideas as applications open for the 2027 European Capital of Innovation Awards (iCapital)

The iCapital Awards is now in its 12th edition, and the competition continues to spotlight urban areas that are driving innovation through collaboration, sustainability, and entrepreneurial support.

The iCapital Awards were launched on 5th May 2026 by the European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency in partnership with the European Commission. This year’s awards were introduced during a high-profile event in Aalborg, Denmark.

The city, currently holding the title of European Rising Innovative City for 2026, set the stage for discussions around the future of urban innovation.

Europe’s most innovative cities

The iCapital Awards aim to celebrate cities that embed innovation into their daily operations and long-term strategies. From fostering start-up ecosystems to implementing green policies, participating cities are expected to demonstrate how they engage communities, businesses, and public institutions in shaping a more sustainable and dynamic future.

The iCapital Awards are open to cities in EU Member States and countries associated with the Horizon Europe programme.

Award categories and funding opportunities

The competition is divided into two main categories based on population size.

The European Capital of Innovation category is designed for larger cities with more than 250,000 inhabitants. The winning city will receive €1 million, while the two runner-up cities will each receive €100,000.

The Rising Innovative Cities category targets smaller urban areas with populations between 50,000 and 249,999. The winners of this category will receive €500,000, with two additional cities each securing €50,000 as runners-up.

This funding is intended to help cities expand and scale their innovation initiatives, ensuring long-term impact beyond the competition itself.

Benefits beyond the prize

In addition to funding, cities that win or are shortlisted gain significant recognition at the European level. This visibility can enhance their reputation as leaders in urban innovation, attracting investment, talent, and partnerships.

Participants also benefit from networking opportunities with other pioneering cities, enabling them to exchange ideas, share best practices, and collaborate on projects that span borders.

Application timeline and next steps

Cities interested in applying must submit their applications by 4 August 2026 at 17:00 CEST. Detailed guidelines, including eligibility criteria and submission requirements, are available through the official iCapital platform.

An online information session is also planned to support potential applicants, offering further insight into the evaluation process and expectations.

With growing emphasis on sustainability, digital transformation, and inclusive growth, the 2027 iCapital Awards is an important opportunity for cities to show how innovation can create a better future for their communities.