Spearheaded by the European Commission (DG GROW and EISMEA), the ICC is one of our largest city support programmes assisting European cities to address two major challenges: making the transition to a net-zero economic model, while enabling competitiveness, social resilience and sustainable development for every EU citizen. Building on the success of the previous edition of the ICC programme (2020-22) the ICC offers an extensive high-profile network, solid methodology and strong support mechanisms. Selected cities in the EU will undertake a two year journey where they will create an impactful strategy through Local Green Deals, and implement innovative solutions that will place them at the forefront of the green and digital transition of their economies.  

The Expression of Interest to join the new phase of the programme has just been extended until 31st May, 11:59pm CEST (midnight).The deadline to send the formal letter of support is set on 9 June, 11:59pm CEST (midnight).

Cities are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible so that it can be efficiently processed. The sooner the city submits, the sooner they will be invited to interview (new cities) or proceed with the review process (returning cities).

What will ICC bring to cities?

As part of the ICC journey, each city will gain access to the following:

• Tailored advice adapted to your city: Each city will have a team of assigned city specialists
  will deliver a tailored programme accounting for the biggest thematic issues for your city
  through several visits to your city and meetings with ecosystem stakeholders.
   
• Networking with peers - share experiences, learnings, and challenges with like minded
  cities. Develop lasting relationships and partnerships with European cities who are
  working for a green and digital future.
   
• Expert advice in city cohorts with similar priorities: Experts will provide advisory services
  to smaller groups of cities focused on common challenges and needs and to facilitate
  collaboration on solution finding and funding applications.
   
• Community meetings: Gatherings of the ICC community to hear from world class
  speakers, receive targeted training; celebrate success and commit to shared action -
  procurement, standards or Local Green Deals. Travels for larger multi city events are
  covered by the ICC initiative.
   
• Support on accessing funding: While no direct funding is offered, participating cities will be
  offered support on where and how to access funding, whether at EU, national or regional
  levels. Cities will be part of a network working directly with the European Commission,
  thereby on first hand being informed about new smart city programmes and opportunities.
  For instance, a total of 23 cities in the Cities Mission were part of the first edition of ICC.
   
• Mentoring to make partnerships – at home and abroad: Get guidance from the most
  innovative cities in the EU, who can steer you on your journey and connect you with their
  own solutions. Interact also with global participants, to learn, to trade and to create new
  markets.

To help you understand the ICC application process, the following resources are provided:   

• Applicant Guidelines and FAQ are available on our website to help you to prepare your application;  
• Info sessions recording provided on ICC website  

Contact us!

The ICC Helpdesk is available to support with any questions or support with applications.