Cities across the European Union face a wide range of challenges daily, such as the green transition, digitalization, urban mobility, or social inclusion. While each city has its own unique characteristics, many of their problems are similar, and solutions can emerge through cooperation and the exchange of experiences.
This idea forms the foundation of the Urban Matchmaker platform, an innovative tool developed under the Urban Initiative. The platform’s goal is to help cities connect, exchange ideas, and collaborate to address common urban challenges. The process is simple yet highly effective:
Cities can identify their specific challenges, search for a partner city that matches them, and together apply for funding.
How does Urban Matchmaker work?
The Urban Matchmaker platform acts as a sort of “intermediary” that helps cities find the right partners for collaboration. Every city can:
- Define their specific challenges and needs – for example, how to reduce carbon emissions, how to create more livable cities, or how to improve public transportation.
- Explore other cities in the European Union that have either already faced similar challenges or are looking to collaborate on similar projects.
- Form partnerships – Once two or more cities decide to collaborate, they can jointly apply for funding through European initiatives, providing them with the resources needed to implement solutions.
Why is collaboration between cities important?
Collaboration between cities not only leads to more efficient solutions but also creates a network of knowledge that supports sustainable urban development across Europe. Issues such as pollution, urban population growth, or digitalization require more than just a local approach – they can be addressed more effectively through the exchange of best practices and resources.
In addition, by participating in such initiatives, cities can benefit from European funding for large-scale projects that would otherwise be difficult to implement.
Example: How can collaboration between cities work?
Let’s assume a small city in Romania is struggling with waste collection and management issues. Through Urban Matchmaker, it can connect with a city in Germany that has already implemented an efficient recycling and waste management system. The two cities can collaborate to implement similar solutions, with the process supported by European funding.
A Platform for the Future of Cities
Urban Matchmaker is a perfect example of how technology and international collaboration can contribute to the sustainable development of cities. By identifying common challenges, finding reliable partners, and accessing necessary funding, cities across Europe can turn challenges into opportunities.
