News & events

Financing sustainable urban development projects is an increasing challenge for European cities. Growing populations, aging infrastructure, climate resilience needs, and rising demands for better public services are placing significant pressure on municipal budgets, often exceeding traditional funding capacities. As a result, local governments often navigate complex financial landscapes while balancing competing priorities to ensure sustainable and inclusive urban growth.

Since 1 January 2025, Poland is holding the presidency of the EU, with urban development and the transition to more sustainable cities as one of its key thematic priorities. Poland aims to foster closer cooperation between European cities to develop innovative solutions for sustainable urban growth. In this context, EUI plays an active role by facilitating the exchange of good practices and supporting municipalities in their efforts to achieve a more sustainable and resilient urban environment.

The Cities Forum 2025 is shaping up as a crucial event for urban practitioners and policy makers. Scheduled to take place in Kraków, Poland, from 17–19 June, the Forum  will be an important venue for sharing perspectives and solutions on the future of cities in the EU, while contributing to the EU policy agenda for cities.