The European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA), in partnership with the European Commission, launched today the 12th edition of the European Capital of Innovation Awards (iCapital) in Aalborg, the 2026 European Rising Innovative City.
The launch event, inaugurated by Aalborg Mayor Lasse Frimand Jensen, featured high-level discussions on green transition, ecosystem-building, new industries, and public-private collaboration—key themes shaping Europe’s innovation landscape.
The iCapital Awards celebrate cities that champion innovation at every level, engaging public and private stakeholders, supporting entrepreneurship, and implementing forward-looking policies that inspire others across Europe. The competition is open to cities from EU Member States and countries associated with Horizon Europe.
Award categories & prizes
The competition features two categories:
- European Capital of Innovation – Open to cities with more than 250 000 inhabitants. The winning city will receive €1 million, while two runner-up cities will each be awarded €100 000.
- Rising Innovative City – Open to cities with a population between 50,000 and 249,999 inhabitants. The winner will receive €500 000, with two runner-up cities each receiving €50 000.
Why cities should apply
Winning or being shortlisted offers:
- EU-wide recognition as an urban innovation leader
- Financial support to scale local innovation initiatives
- Networking opportunities with other pioneering cities
How to apply
Cities are invited to submit their applications by 4 August 2026 at 17:00 (CEST).
European Capital of Innovation call
European Rising Innovative City call
For detailed information, including eligibility criteria and application guidelines, please visit the iCapital webpage.
An online information session will take place on 21 May 2026, from 10:00 to 11:30 (CEST). Interested? Register here
Details
- Publication date
- 5 May 2026
- Author
- European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency