CIIC: A Model of Innovation Showcased in the European Commission’s Digital Exhibition

The Civic Imagination and Innovation Centre (CIIC) was established by the Municipality of Cluj-Napoca with a bold vision: to create a dynamic platform for open dialogue and collaboration that could address the pressing urban challenges facing our city. Since then, CIIC has become a central hub where the local government, citizens, and experts from diverse fields come together to discuss Cluj-Napoca’s transformation, future, and climate-neutral ambitions. 

CIIC became a laboratory where we develop and test various forms of collaboration and partnerships between local actors to support participatory practices and encourage discussions on urban innovation projects. Together, we’re building a resilient, forward-thinking Cluj-Napoca that reflects the aspirations and input of its people.

European Commission’s Digital Exhibition of Success Stories

As part of the Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities Mission, Cluj-Napoca was featured in the European Commission’s Digital Exhibition, which celebrates the transformative work of cities across Europe. 

This online showcase brings together stories from cities participating in the EU Mission Cities initiative, an ambitious program that aims to tackle the continent’s biggest challenges with real, measurable outcomes by 2030. 

By featuring Cluj-Napoca’s story and the pivotal role of CIIC, the European Commission is amplifying the importance of local action and citizen involvement in addressing global issues. The Mission Cities initiative, which the exhibition is part of, represents a novel approach to governance and climate action. It encourages cities to innovate while involving their residents in the decision-making process. Our city’s participation in the exhibition is an open invitation to citizens, community groups, and businesses alike to join the movement for climate neutrality.

Cluj-Napoca was recognized for its commitment to climate neutrality along other Mission CIties:

• Bologna – CAAB’s large photovoltaic system generates renewable energy for local use, with plans to expand for even higher production.
• Valladolid – Real Valladolid FC supports urban decarbonization and climate-neutrality through sports.
• Marseille – “Tree Plan” to plant trees across public spaces, aiding cooling and heat resilience.
• Vitoria-Gasteiz – Industrial partnerships with companies like Mercedes to reduce emissions by 2030.
• Münster – Green Bonds fund sustainable projects, from schools to solar energy installations.
• Lahti – Lahti Pelicans, the first carbon-neutral hockey team, leads city toward 2030 climate goals.
• Oslo – Aiming for zero-emission public construction by 2025.

• Reykjavik – Geothermal power plant exhibit showcases renewable energy for public education.

The Mission Cities are currently on a journey to meet the climate neutrality goals they’ve committed to reach by 2030. They are planning and implementing concrete actions in a collaborative way to deliver the Mission’s objectives by engaging with citizens and partners.

Accelerating Climate Goals Through CIIC

One of CIIC’s primary objectives has been to support Cluj-Napoca’s ambitious commitment to achieve climate neutrality by 2030. At CIIC, we are channeling resources into projects that directly address climate action, from reducing emissions to promoting sustainable urban practices.

CIIC continuously engages the community through hands-on workshops, like teaching children about the green dimension and public debates on climate neutrality. Additionally, projects such as the “Blueprint for Net-Zero Apartment-block Neighborhoods” showcase CIIC’s efforts to involve citizens directly in the city’s path to climate neutrality.

Building a Sustainable Future Together

We invite everyone—citizens, business leaders, and community organizations—to join us on this journey toward sustainability. Our feature in the Digital Exhibition is a reminder of the collective potential we hold. 

Together, we can meet the challenges of today and build a city that will thrive for generations to come. Through the continued support of initiatives like the EU Mission Cities, we are paving the way to a brighter, greener future for Cluj-Napoca and beyond.