How can European collaboration on social innovation be strengthened and how does the European Commission promote these exchanges? This discussion will be an opportunity to present the European Capital of Innovation Award and to exchange with other finalist cities.
1) What can you tell us about the application process?
=> Nantes
We valued the uniqueness of the city, the eThe process of participating in the competition is also very important, not only the prize. It allows for the development of ideas and cooperation projects between the candidate cities.
mphasis was not only on technological innovation, but also on democratic and civic dialogue. Many of the candidate cities are using companies to make the bids, and the videos are very much like commercials. Nantes made its candidacy as a co-creation between several parties, including citizens who are not communication specialists, which led to an honest and sincere result that stood out from the crowd. “It was our recklessness that helped us win”.
=> Louvain
Citizens have an important place in the innovation process, which in turn must change people’s lives for the better, is the idea of innovation by and for all. The city of Leuven is used to strong partnerships between institutions such as government, universities and companies. The application was written in cooperation with stakeholders.
=> Cluj
The process of participating in the competition is also very important, not only the prize. It allows for the development of ideas and cooperation projects between the candidate cities.
2) What are your plans now?
=> Nantes
Nantes has made a commitment to the European Commission to create an event celebrating the European Capital of Innovation Award in order to show citizens that the European Union can improve their daily lives.
=> Louvain
- Make an energetic video to show how and why we won the award, what it means for citizens.
- Maintain the commitment of the actors and the link established during the application process.
- Creating a permanent innovation forum
- Becoming a greener city
=> Cluj
The 100,000 euros won for the finalist prize will be used to set up an innovation fund and encourage entrepreneurs, especially young people, and to set up participatory workshops.
3) A final word ?
“Don’t stop dreaming!”
