Latest EcocNews
LPGC ’31, online the 2nd international Open Call
The Mata Castle Museum brought together the cultural sector to launch a new participatory process around the final project that could lead Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to become European Capital of Culture 2031. Initiatives and practitioner profiles can be…
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Trencin 2026 and Nova Gorica 2025: a tale of two capitals
To mark the opening day of the European Capital of Culture Trenčín 2026, an evening event open to all will take place on 20 June, starting at 6 pm, celebrating friendship, culture and the ties between the two European Capitals…
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Trenčín 2026, Contemporary art in defence of the planet
The Green Line project, developed as part of the Trenčín 2026 – European Capital of Culture programme, will bring a series of artworks to public spaces from June to December 2026. Curator Oto Hudec’s concept combines art, environmental themes, community…
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Matera and Tétouan 2026, 2nd International Open Call
The Mediterranean Capitals of Culture and Dialogue is born from the collective efforts of over 200 young representatives from the civil society of over 20 countries, who gathered at the Forum des Mondes Méditerranéens in February 2022 in Marseille. Their recommendations, alongside the call of Ministers of…
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Oulu 2026, the rainbow of the Finnish light art scene
The Finnish Light Art Society FLASH contributes to Oulu’s year as European Capital of Culture with a major showcase of contemporary Finnish light art. The fifth FLASH Light Art Biennial presents works byestablished artists alongside emerging talents, highlighting the diversity…
Read moreWho we are
Members of the network are European cities, current or former candidates to the European Capital of Culture title.
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Mission
Our mission
Cities are where democracy, inclusiveness and innovation are produced, with culture being a facilitator of this entire ecosystem. More cities with cultural programmes for sustainability mean more power to address European challenges and opportunities;
The mission of the network is to support current and former European Capital of Culture candidate cities to implement culture-led urban development programmes and policies.
Meet our member cities
Members of the network are European cities, current or former candidates to the European Capital of Culture title.
Benefits of becoming a Member
Exchange of information and expertize specific for the needs
Free access to the Network’s capacity building programme for cultural cities
Technical and moral support to face the challenges specific to different phases of ECoC candidacy
Participation in specific programmes and grant application consortia
Participation and support in advocacy campaigns related to culture and urban development
The network facilitates European partnerships, mobility of creators and artworks, engagement of cities and citizens with European issues.
Latest News
(Additional) Open Call for Member Cities to host a Culture Next Thematic Working Groups
This is an open to received intentions to host Thematic Working Groups (TWGs) in 2027 and 2028 addressing the issues of Culture for the Planet and Culture for the Digital Transformation. Call launch date: 2 June 2026 Deadline for…
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Larnaka, common ground for over 160 participants at the 16th Culture Next Conference
LARNAKA, 12th of May. The 16th Culture Next Conference brought 168 participants to Larnaka to discuss the future of artists and cultural ecosystems across Europe. The event focused on empowering artists, solidarity, care and culture as a safe space in…
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Fresh opportunities and new steps in our collaboration with EU-Japan Fest!
Culture Next welcomes the extension of the EU-Japan Fest Mobility Support Programme to its member cities, opening new opportunities for cultural professionals to engage, collaborate, and connect with Japan starting April 2026.
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