URBACT Accelerator for Ukraine and Moldova: bespoke learning programme for cities

URBACT, the EU programme enabling the cooperation and idea exchange amongst cities, has launched a new dedicated learning programme supporting cities from Ukraine and Moldova in addressing urban reconstruction, revitalisation, resilience and crisis-management challenges.

The URBACT Accelerator for Ukraine and Moldova is a targeted learning-and-action programme combining practical experimentation, tailored capacity-building and structured European peer exchange. Inspired by the URBACT Method, it aims to help cities turn existing priorities and strategies into concrete and feasible urban actions while strengthening institutional readiness for future EU-funded initiatives.

The bespoke programme is structured around three interconnected tracks bringing together cities from Ukraine, Moldova and EU Member States.

Urban Knowledge Track

This track will provide structured learning and exchange opportunities to all participating cities through:

• a webinar series on integrated and participatory urban development, the URBACT method and EU sustainable urban development frameworks;
• in-person EU study trips focused on urban reconstruction, revitalisation, resilience and crisis management;
• national-level URBACT events in Ukraine and Moldova.

Urban Action Lab Track

Ten cities from Ukraine and Moldova will be selected to receive additional support to design and implement concrete small-scale urban actions within the programme timeframe.

Selected cities will benefit from:

• dedicated funding of up to €40,000;
• tailored expertise and coaching;
• on-site Urban Action Labs involving local stakeholders;
• peer support from EU Mentor Cities.

EU Mentor City Track

Up to 10 experienced cities from EU Member States are invited to join the programme as Mentor Cities.

EU Mentor Cities will contribute through peer learning, online coaching and staff exchanges, sharing practical experience related to sustainable urban development, integrated approaches and the delivery of urban actions on the ground.

The programme will run from November 2026 until May 2028 and will culminate in the production of a ‘Bespoke Lessons Learned’ publication documenting insights, practices and recommendations emerging from the experience.

The deadline for applications is 16 July.

Find out more

Press release