DeadlineApplications close 11 September 2026  •  Winners announced 9 October in Burgas
Applications Open Now
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CityLovers

We invite individuals, organisations, and companies with practical ideas or projects that can make their city better. Both early-stage concepts and already-operational initiatives are welcome.

Apply →

Winners will be announced at the First City Ideas Forum in Burgas in the beginning of October. Participation is free, claim your spot on the Forum here.

June
Opens
11 Sep
Deadline
€10,000
Awards

Competition Timeline

Phase 1
Submissions Open
June 2026
Phase 2
Submissions Close
11 Sep 2026
Phase 3
Shortlist Announced
30 September 2026
Phase 4
Winners Announced at the City Ideas Forum
October 2026 · Burgas

Five Areas. One City.

Your project must aim to change or influence city life in one of these five areas.

Green Energy

Projects that bring renewable and sustainable energy solutions to urban neighbourhoods — from community solar to energy-efficient retrofits.

🌬️
Clean Air & Transport

Ideas that reduce pollution and reimagine how people and goods move through the city.

🏙️
Urban Environment & Quality of Life

Improving the fabric of city life — public space, greenery, noise, safety, accessibility.

🚰
Waters

Solutions for urban water management — from flood resilience and river restoration to drinking water access.

📡
Urban Technologies

Digital and technological tools that make cities smarter, more transparent, and more equitable.

How Projects Are Evaluated

An independent jury assesses each submission across five dimensions.

🎯
Impact

How significantly does the project improve urban life?

Significance

Does it address a real and pressing urban challenge?

👥
Team & Experience

Does the team have the credibility and capability to deliver?

♻️
Sustainability

Can the project sustain itself beyond the prize?

💡
Innovativeness

Is this a genuinely new approach?

Organised Together With

Apply to CityLovers 2026

Applications are open. Fill in your project details below and attach a brief project document.

1 file attached:

Download the empty application template (DOCX), fill it in, save and attach above. · Download template →

By submitting you agree to the contest Terms & Conditions.

Read the full contest rules: T&Cs here →