The European Commission has today announced the finalists of the 2026 European Capital
of Innovation Awards (iCapital), celebrating cities at the forefront of urban innovation for
over a decade.
Supported by the European Innovation Council under Horizon Europe, the iCapital prize is
awarded to cities that act as front-runners in leveraging innovation to shape more
sustainable, inclusive, and resilient urban environments.
After an intense selection process, including interviews with six semi-finalist cities, a
high-level jury of innovation leaders from academia, business, and policy has made its
choice, naming Liverpool as a top three finalist. No UK city has ever won this prestigious
award.
Liverpool’s bid is named ‘LIFE’, which stands for ‘Liverpool Innovates for Everyone’. It is
focused on what the City and the wider City Region has achieved since being European
Capital of Culture in 2008, detailing the work that has been done and is ongoing to inspire
young people and improve people’s lives through inclusive innovation – a strategy fuelled
by culture and powered by innovation.
Through the shortlisting process Liverpool has been recognised for driving significant urban
transformation, through its commitment to cultural regeneration and technological
advancement. It has not just reflected on past successes however, but used these
important milestones to accelerate and transform its ongoing strategy.
Liverpool has prioritised inclusive growth and community engagement, enhancing its
reputation as a leader in creativity and innovation. By fostering collaborations between arts,
technology, and social sectors, Liverpool has effectively harnessed its historical and cultural
assets to create dynamic economic opportunities and a vibrant innovation landscape.
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.