Applications for the European Youth Capital 2029 are now open
Does your city have what it takes to become the next European Youth Capital? 💪 Each year, a European city is given the opportunity to showcase innovative ideas and projects done by, and for young people, improving youth participation across the continent. The European Youth Capital title is bringing communities together since 2009, creating liveable city ecosystems for young people. Apply now to become the next European Youth Capital.
why should your municipality apply?
Young people must have an equal opportunity to shape the social, economic and political life in their communities. They bring fresh ideas, boost local democracy, and their contributions benefit all of the city’s residents. The European Youth Capital project supports both young people and the municipality to open up these possibilities and lead the way for other European cities to follow.
During the year a city is awarded the European Youth Capital title, the winning municipality engages with young people and celebrates their contributions to urban life. The title allows the city to showcase its commitments and engage residents in inclusive co-creation. It leads to stronger support for young people and their rights and improves the connection with other European cities that prioritise their young residents as well.
The application process is also an opportunity for decision-makers and youth organisations to work together, discuss young people's priorities, and receive feedback from an expert group on their proposals.
want to know more?
Check out what it means to hold the title and the positive impact it can bring to your city "European Youth Capital: ten years of boosting vibrant youthful cities".
What does it look like to be the European Youth Capital?
📷 Watch the videos of former European Youth Capitals: Lublin, Ghent and Lviv.
how to participate?
Cities must submit an application together with a local youth organisation, outlining their past performance in the youth field, their motivation, a draft plan the year, a strong youth participatory approach, and their willingness to secure the long-lasting legacy of the proposed actions.
Up to five short-listed candidates will be selected by an expert jury that will provide feedback and recommendations on how they can improve their applications, before a final winner is chosen and announced at the European Youth Capital Award Ceremony in November 2026.
For more information, and submitting the application, please download the full application package:
- The Call for Applications - assessment process and the key criteria which are essential to any application for the European Youth Capital title;
- Concept Note questionnaire;
- The Concept Note template - first round (pdf and doc);
- Legal terms and conditions;
- The Standard template of the Cooperation Agreement;
- The European Youth Capital Policy Toolkit;
- The Timeline of the competition of the relevant year including all important deadlines.
🚨 deadline
17 February 2026 (23:59 CET)
questions?
If you have any questions about the application and selection procedure, please contact eyc@youthforum.org.
Good luck 🤞
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