About the workshop

The European Commission's Directorate-General for Regional and Urban Policy (DG REGIO) and the European Investment Bank (EIB) are organising the fi-compass thematic workshop 'Urban development and city financial instruments', on 21 and 22 October 2026, in Lisbon, Portugal.

Urban development has become a key sector for financial instruments, building on a foundation that stretches from the JESSICA initiative (2006-2013 programming period) to recent efforts like the New European Bauhaus and the launch of  a dedicated model financial instrument combining financial instruments and grants for affordable housing. This model marks a major step forward, offering managing authorities concrete mechanisms to scale up investments in accessible, sustainable housing across Europe.

Looking ahead, the importance of the sector is set to grow under the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), where fostering the attractiveness of territories and supporting integrated urban and rural development are key priorities. At the same time, the EU Agenda for Cities and the Horizon Europe ‘Climate Neutral and Smart Cities’ Mission are driving renewed demand for financing solutions, with cities increasingly exploring financial instruments to leverage private sector investment.

The workshop will:

  • Showcase successful examples of urban development financial instruments in the current programming period.
  • Explore emerging EU policy priorities, including the EU Agenda for Cities.
  • Present preliminary findings of the fi-compass market study on urban development.
  • Feature interactive discussions on financing needs and ways to leverage private sector investment in urban development.

Participants will also have the opportunity to participate in site visits featuring project examples in Lisbon that were financed through urban development financial instruments.

Registration is mandatory and participation will be subject to approval.
Deadline: Thursday, 15 October 2026

Target audience

This thematic workshop is specifically designed for:

  • Managing authorities.
  • ‘EU Mission Climate Neutral and Smart Cities’ representatives and city officials.
  • National Promotional Banks and Institutions.
  • Private financial institutions and intermediaries with an interest or active experience in urban development financial instruments.

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