Europe’s urban structure is unique, characterised by numerous small cities. There are approximately 14,000 small urban areas (SUAs) in the EU, housing 43% of the population.  

These SUAs are not only abundant but also strategically important, forming the backbone of the EU’s polycentric urban structure. They serve as satellites when located near larger urban centres, offering affordable housing and a slower pace of life.

In rural areas, they function as hubs for services, economic activities, and recreation, fostering connections between urban and rural areas and promoting balanced relationships and mutual exchange (Joint Research Centre).

The EU cohesion policy focuses on urban development. It promotes integrated development for all types of territories, allocating at least 8% of the European Regional and Development Fund for sustainable urban development.

During this webinar, we will explore how SUAs can leverage European funding opportunities. And how to use sustainable urban development to create tailored strategies to address their unique place-based societal challenges, while contributing to the green and digital twin transition.