Core cities are the main beneficiaries of the programme. They consist of 2 different groups:
- European cities who took part in the Digital Cities Challenge that preceded ICC
- New applicant cities from within the EU
They will be supported to operationalise their city strategies and to become regional role models whose enhanced city performance will contribute to improving quality of life and creating new opportunities for their citizens. They will have the opportunity to network with peers and mentors across the EU and beyond and will establish a lasting international knowledge network of experts, cities and stakeholders.
Mentor cities are experts with a proven track record in at least one of the ICC's thematic areas. They support the core cities in reaching their objectives by sharing their knowledge and helping to scale intelligent city solutions.