Press Release: European Commission seeks ‘Capital of Innovation’

Author (Corporate)
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Series Details IP/13/808 (03.09.13)
Publication Date 03/09/2013
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The European Commission has started the search for the first European Capital of Innovation, or iCapital, on 3 September 2013. The prize will reward the city which is building the best “innovation ecosystem”, connecting citizens, public organisations, academia, and business.

Given that 68% of the EU population now lives in urban areas, it is these areas that will contribute the most to making Europe more innovative. Cities foster innovation in their own provision of services, but the key is to create the right environment for others to innovate and to allow the public and private spheres to connect.

An independent panel of experts will select the winner in spring 2014, with the city chosen receiving €500000 towards scaling up its efforts. The deadline for applications is 3 December 2013.

Innovation is central to economic growth and business competitiveness, and is at the heart of the Europe 2020 strategy. The European Union has set itself the goal of becoming an 'Innovation Union'.

Source Link Link to Main Source http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_IP-13-808_en.htm
Related Links
European Commission: Innovation Union: European Capital of Innovation 'iCapital' Award http://ec.europa.eu/research/innovation-union/index_en.cfm?section=icapital
European Commission: Research and Innovation: Horizon 2020 http://ec.europa.eu/research/horizon2020/index_en.cfm

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