The City Ideas Institute — "CityLovers" — is a civic think-and-do tank dedicated to urban development, connecting small-scale initiatives and building a network of ideas and active people. Built on 5 years of the CityLovers Award, supported by the British Embassy, the Flag Fund and Capital, we have created Bulgaria's largest database of over 200 urban initiatives, groups and movements.
Local initiatives are booming — but the infrastructure to connect, support and scale them is missing.
A snapshot of what the CityLovers community has built so far — and what we operate on every day.
From knowledge and research to fellowships and regional connections.
Leveraging the database of 200+ urban initiatives to create a national resource for urban knowledge and assistance.
Testing, prototyping and scaling urban solutions — producing policy papers, rankings, and actionable products for cities.
Bringing together urban movements, civic groups, experts and local authorities for dialogue, peer learning and exchange.
Supporting municipalities in engaging with citizens' ideas and reducing trial-and-error costs through fellowships and labs.
Growing into a true Balkan hub for urban collaboration, attracting EU funding and international partnerships.
Offering students internships, practical courses and guest lectures — building the next generation of urban changemakers.
Funding grassroots initiatives that reclaim public spaces for people.
We believe that's the only way ahead for cities, if they are to become better and healthier for everyone.
Three flagship products that turn the work above into things cities and citizens can actually use.
The Institute operates as an independent NGO, supported by a host city and a network of founding partners.
City Ideas Institute is a non-profit, registered in Bulgaria