City honored as a European innovation hub with funding for transformative projects

Braga has been awarded the title of “European Rising Innovative City“ at the 10th edition of the European Capital of Innovation Awards (iCapital Awards) 2024, highlighting its role in fostering a sustainable and collaborative innovation ecosystem.

The award was announced at the Web Summit in Lisbon, placing Braga alongside previous Portuguese winners such as Lisbon, Cascais, and Aveiro. This recognition comes with a prize of €500,000, which Braga will use to boost new initiatives that solidify its status as a leading innovation hub in Europe.

Organized in Portugal by the National Innovation Agency (ANI) under the PERIN Network, the iCapital Awards celebrate cities with inclusive innovation ecosystems. The initiative acknowledges cities that connect citizens, academia, businesses, and the public sector to develop technological solutions that enhance quality of life.

This accolade underscores Braga’s commitment to leading Europe’s innovation agenda, integrating disruptive technologies and strategic partnerships to tackle social and economic challenges sustainably.