Braga hosted the launch of the 2026 edition, after being distinguished as a European Rising Innovative City in 2025
The 10th edition of the European Capital of Innovation Awards (iCapital) was launched in Braga, a competition that annually recognizes cities with inclusive innovation ecosystems that promote disruptive solutions for the well-being of citizens. The ceremony took place on March 21, in the 2025 winner of the European Rising Innovative City category, an award announced during the Web Summit in November last year.
The award distinguishes two main categories: European Capital of Innovation, for cities with more than 250,000 inhabitants, and Rising Innovative City, for municipalities with between 50,000 and 250,000 inhabitants. In addition to international recognition, the top three cities in each category receive a cash prize to strengthen their innovation ecosystems.
iCapital is promoted by the European Innovation Council (EIC) and has the support of the National Innovation Agency (ANI), as part of the PERIN Network, which monitors national participation in European initiatives to fund and promote innovation.
Applications for the 2026 edition are open until June 18.
More information is available here.
