NextGen Microcities - Next Generation Micro Cities of Europe

The NextGen Microcities project focused on job creation and business development activities. It aimed at overcoming challenges related to skills shortage and lack of high-level specialists in micro cities by creating new and innovative solutions in education, business and governance. Through a combination of actions, local technological skills capacity was enhanced. The project tested an innovative career guidance strategy including the launch of an internet tool and marketing strategy for higher and vocational education institutions to attract and retain talents in micro cities. To reduce skills mismatch the project implemented an experimental Education Technology plan. A smart school concept was developed to provide 21st century ICT, digital and education skills for employers, education institutions and local authorities. Innovative teaching aids, study programs and a pilot project were developed to generate new skills, jobs, businesses, private and public services using Educational Technology. These elements were combined with a Ten Type Innovation Framework and a Foreign Direct Investment attraction strategy in order to provide favourable preconditions for business development and job creation.

During its implementation, the UIA project has capitalised on its experience so that it can be shared with peers. The outputs displayed on this page are the result of this process.