An aerial view of the Knowledge Quarter in Liverpool (Image: KQ Liverpool)
Liverpool missed out on the 2026 European Capital of Innovation at a ceremony in Turin this morning. The award celebrates impactful urban innovation, focusing on cities that create more sustainable, safe, and durable city environments.
The winner is selected by a jury made up of leading experts in urban development, innovation, and sustainability. The past two winners of the iCapital prize have been Turin and Lisbon - cities recognised for their creative approach to city growth. In addition to the monetary reward of €1m, this accolade could have huge long-term benefits for the winning city.
Liverpool, along with Rotterdam in The Netherlands and Grenoble Alpes Métropole in France, were the three finalists.

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