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The Power of Investment in Small Cities: Keeping Residents and Attracting New Talent

Small cities across Europe are at a crossroads. Many are seeing young people leave for larger urban centers, chasing better job opportunities and lifestyles. This phenomenon, known as urban shrinkage, threatens the vitality of these communities. Investments create new job opportunities, support local businesses, and improve the quality of life. When people see their city as a place with potential, they’re more likely to stay and others are more likely to move in. Attracting investments into small cities is a huge challenge. How to attract investors? Where to find them? What should we offer? How to distinct good investments from the bad ones. And what does it even mean? 

Šibenik’s Green Agenda: Driving Climate Literacy Through URBACT Collaboration

How green is your IAP? These days, when the development of the Integrated Action Plan (IAP) is in full swing, most of the URBACT IV networks face the same challenge. We all know that, to be sustainable, our IAP must be “green”. But what that means in real life? Why is that important? How can we convince our ULG partners to give up some simpler and cheaper project ideas and follow the harder path? All thes questions were tackled on URBACT Croatian national campus, held in Zagreb, 24th and 25th of October. Climate literacy workshops have become a kind of standard today. But just few years ago, it wasn't a case. Here is the story from Šibenik. 

3rd Quarterly Report for the Residents of the Future project is out

Thank you for joining us in this third Quarterly Report for the Residents of the Future project. We’re thrilled
to share the progress and dedication that each city has poured into this transformative journey. This edition
highlights the impressive strides taken across our network, from Testing Actions that bring new life to local
spaces, to initiatives aimed at retaining youth, enhancing community engagement, and building sustainable
housing solutions.

 

Download the full report here >> 

Empowering Youth, Revitalizing Alba Iulia: A City’s Mission Against Depopulation

Alba Iulia, Romania’s “spiritual capital,” faces a pressing issue that impacts its future. With each year, more young adults are drawn to larger urban centers or international destinations, leaving Alba Iulia’s streets quieter, schools smaller, and local businesses missing vital energy. However, this resilient city is not giving in to the challenges of depopulation and urban shrinkage. Instead, it’s tackling them head-on through bold initiatives designed to make Alba Iulia an attractive home for young people once again.

Midway to Impact: Residents of the Future Cities Unite for Action-Oriented Solutions

From October 8–10, the picturesque city of Mangualde in Portugal played host to the Residents of the Future transnational meeting, bringing together partner cities dedicated to tackle negative demographic trends. Nestled in the heart of Portugal’s renowned wine region, Mangualde is celebrated for its world-famous wine production and unique domestic cuisine, which delighted participants throughout the conference. The scenic backdrop and rich cultural offerings provided an inspiring setting for three days of collaboration, learning, and camaraderie.

European small cities losing population: Why & what could be the magnets for their attractiveness?

THE BASELINE STUDY: developed by Tiago Ferreira, Residents of the Future network Lead expert. 

During Phase 1, the nine partners have explored their individual and shared challenges through the partners’ visits and
meetings. Now it’s time to sit back, reflect on the network challenge (as it relates to the European and local context), each partner’s starting point, as well as learning expectations, and focus on the action planning.