Networks and cities' news

Highlights from the 4th RECUP Core Network Meeting in Bielsko Biała

Earlier this March, representatives from the RECUP network gathered in the vibrant Polish city of Bielsko‑Biała for the 4th Core Network Meeting. Over two days (4–5 March 2026), partners immersed themselves in workshops, peer‑learning sessions, study visits, inspiring cultural experiences, and reflective discussions on loneliness, art, and community well‑being.

Hosted by the Municipality of Bielsko‑Biała—recently named Polish Capital of Culture 2026—the meeting offered an excellent backdrop to explore how culture can reshape urban spaces and strengthen social connection.

Mancomunitat l’Horta Nord: Connecting a Territory Through a Shared Cultural Platform

Within the URBACT RECUP (Reinventing Culture in Urban Places) project, the Testing Action of the Mancomunitat l’Horta Nord was born from a shared diagnosis across its ten municipalities: the territory enjoyed a rich and diverse cultural life, yet lacked the cohesion, visibility and coordination needed to fully harness it. Cultural activities were often developed in isolation, with fragmented audiences, duplicated efforts and limited collaboration between cultural officers, libraries and local actors.

The challenge was clear: cultural vitality existed — what was missing was a shared system to organise, amplify and connect it.

URBACT Pioneers Interim Results - Turning Urban Ambition into Local Action

Over the past 9 months, 27 cities from the Western Balkans have been quietly reshaping what collaboration looks like. Through the URBACT Pioneers Accelerator (UPA), they’ve moved from curiosity to confidence - exploring, defining, and now preparing to act. 

Waste Management Cluster & First thematic learning expedition in Munich

From Bavaria to the Balkans: How Munich’s Circular Vision is Energizing URBACT Pioneers. 

Sustainable Tourism Cluster & First thematic learning expedition in Rotterdam

Porting post-industrial sustainable tourism practice: lessons from Rotterdam and the resilient delta for our URBACT Pioneers

Urban Nature Cluster & First thematic learning expedition in Utrecht

From car domination to inclusive European urban greening: how the city of Utrecht is an inspiration for URBACT Pioneers