Liverpool will go up against Rotterdam and Grenoble-Alpes Métropole for the prestigious 2026 title and a €1 million prize
An aerial view of the Knowledge Quarter in Liverpool, looking over the University of Liverpool and the Metropolitan Cathedral towards the city centre(Image: KQ Liverpool)
Liverpool will shortly find out whether it has been named the 2026 European Capital of Innovation, with the decision due to be announced at a ceremony in Turin this morning, Thursday December 4.
The award celebrates impactful urban innovation, focusing on cities that create more sustainable, safe, and durable city environments. The winner is selected by a jury made up of leading experts in urban development, innovation, and sustainability. The past two winners of the iCapital prize have been Turin and Lisbon – cities recognised for their creative approach to city growth.
In addition to the monetary reward of €1 million, this accolade could have huge long-term benefits for the winning city.
It could open up new opportunities for local residents to pursue careers in science and technology, while advancements in those areas could help to improve public services and attract new partnerships, funding and global investment to the city.
Here’s a summary of the three finalists:
- Liverpool – Recognised for its commitment to cultural regeneration and technological advancement to transform the urban environment. With an already stellar reputation in creativity, investment, and the arts, this has been enhanced by its prioritisation of community engagement.
- Rotterdam – A forward-thinking city driven by sustainable, smart mobility and a circular economy initiative. Emphasis on cooperation with other European cities highlights its status as a premier city in developing a sustainable urban environment.
- Grenoble-Alpes Métropole – Its strategic approach to innovation has put the city on the map through initiatives to achieve waste reduction, climate resilience, and soil health integration.
Speaking after the finalists were announced, Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram said: “I’ve been telling everyone that will listen in government that we are an innovation powerhouse, so I’m delighted Liverpool has been shortlisted to be the European Capital of Innovation.
“It’s a powerful recognition of the incredible progress we’ve made – and the bold ambitions we have for the future.
“Innovation isn’t just something we do – it’s who we are. From world-first breakthroughs in science and medicine to our pioneering Innovation Zone, we’re proving that when you invest in people, places and ideas, you can create something truly transformative.
“As we look to the future, we want to cement our place as the go to city region for AI, advanced manufacturing and life sciences.
“This shortlisting is a testament to the creativity, resilience and talent of our people – and a signal to the world that the Liverpool City Region is leading the way.”
Colin Sinclair pictured in Liverpool City centre(Image: Gareth Jones)CEO of Knowledge Quarter Liverpool (KQ Liverpool) and Sciontec Developments Limited (Sciontec)
KQ Liverpool is home to many of the city’s key leaders in innovation and we are proud to have played our part in the wider efforts of Team Liverpool to reach this stage.