Brief Information
The Cities Forum 2027 Host City Call is an open invitation for EU cities to host one of Europe’s most influential urban policy events. Co-organised by the European Urban Initiative (EUI) and the European Commission’s DG REGIO, this flagship forum brings together policymakers, urban practitioners, and cohesion policy stakeholders from across Europe. Selected host cities will play a key role in shaping discussions on sustainable urban development in the EU.
Key Dates & Details
- Application Deadline: 17 February 2026 (14:00 CET)
- Event Period: Mid-April to mid-June 2027
- Event Duration: 1.5 – 2 days
- Participants: ~800 onsite participants
- Location / Type: Onsite, EU Member State (host city)
- Target Group: EU cities, urban authorities, policymakers, urban practitioners
- Organisers: European Urban Initiative (EUI) & European Commission (DG REGIO)
- Application Language: English
- Application Mode: 100% online (paperless)
Table of Contents
Overview
The Cities Forum 2027 Host City Call is part of the European Commission’s long-term effort to strengthen the urban dimension of EU Cohesion Policy. The Cities Forum serves as a high-level platform for dialogue, exchange, and collaboration among cities of all sizes and profiles across the European Union.
The 7th edition of the Cities Forum is expected to welcome around 800 in-person participants and will focus on creating a green, grounded, and interactive event experience. Hosting the Cities Forum 2027 offers cities a unique opportunity to showcase their urban innovation capacity, sustainability ambitions, and commitment to European cooperation.
Preferred event weeks include:
- Starting 19 April 2027
- 10 May 2027
- 17 May 2027
- 24 May 2027
- 31 May 2027
- 7 June 2027
⚠️ Events cannot be held on Mondays, and national holidays must be carefully considered when proposing dates.
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Eligibility
The Cities Forum 2027 Host City Call is open to:
Eligible Authorities
- Any EU city or urban authority located within the European Union
- Cities with the capacity to host a major international event
- Authorities able to demonstrate organisational, logistical, and strategic readiness
Geographic Considerations
There are no formal geographic restrictions, but special attention will be given to cities from EU Member States not previously represented as host locations. Past host countries include:
- Belgium
- The Netherlands
- Portugal
- Italy
- Poland
The goal is to ensure greater geographic balance across the EU.
Application Details
Applications for the Cities Forum 2027 Host City Call must be submitted online via the EUI platform. The application form acts as a formal offer by the host city.
Key Requirements
Applicant cities are expected to:
- Present a clear vision for hosting the event
- Demonstrate venue capacity and accessibility
- Outline potential local contributions (e.g. venue provision, catering, transport, local expertise)
- Commit to supporting site visits and stakeholder engagement
💡 While the event budget is fully covered by the EUI Permanent Secretariat, host cities are expected to contribute in-kind or financially. The level and quality of the city’s contribution is a key evaluation criterion.
Application Steps
- Create or log in to an EUI account
- Complete the 8-step online application form
- Upload required documentation
- Submit the application in English
Support Available
Applicants can receive guidance through:
- 📘 Background document & courtesy application form
- 📧 Email support: [email protected]
- 🌍 National Urban Contact Points (native language support):
https://www.urban-initiative.eu/urban-contact-points#anchor-ucp-list
For broader EU urban development context, applicants may also consult the European Commission’s Cohesion Policy overview.
FAQ
Who covers the cost of the Cities Forum 2027?
The EUI Permanent Secretariat covers the main event budget, while host cities are expected to contribute services or resources.
What kind of contribution is expected from the host city?
Contributions may include venue provision, catering, local transport, site visits, or engagement of local experts.
Can smaller cities apply?
Yes. Cities of all sizes are encouraged to apply, provided they can meet the hosting requirements.
Is the application process paper-based?
No. The entire application process is 100% online and paperless.
Official Link
👉 Official Call & Full Details:
https://www.urban-initiative.eu/cities-forum/2027/call-host-city
📝 Apply Here:
https://www.urban-initiative.eu/form/cities-forum-2027-call-for-hosti
📂 Application Pack:
- Background document:
https://www.urban-initiative.eu/sites/default/files/2026-01/Call%20for%20host%20city_CF2027_background%20document%20for%20applicants_0.pdf - Courtesy application form:
https://www.urban-initiative.eu/sites/default/files/2026-01/Call%20for%20host%20city_%20application%20form_courtesy%20document_0.pdf
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