The "Intelligent Connected Cities" (ICC) project
- ievaarnite2
- Sep 30
- 1 min read
The "Intelligent Connected Cities" (ICC) project is designed to enhance the global competitiveness of SMEs from the Central Baltic region by addressing key challenges like market access, technological adaptation, and sustainability in non-EU markets. This initiative uniquely focuses on integrating SMEs into "megaprojects." Megaprojects are concrete existing larger scale development initiatives linked inmodern urban development (for example Indonesia’s Nusantara, Saudi Arabia’s NEOM, NYC GovernorIsland etc.) which include demand for solutions from cross-industries.
ICC's approach involves directly linking SMEs to these megaprojects, providing a structured framework that facilitates direct pathway for sales and contracts opportunities. It emphasizes sustainability, aiming to align SME activities with global sustainability goals and integrate them into major projects to promote long-term economic growth possibilities. The project targets 1-3 megaprojects to build a sales funnel, engaging 80+ SMEs with the goal of securing 20 sales contracts.
Key outputs include creating a digital company portfolio, forming strategic partnerships, and boosting SME capabilities through targeted training and innovation challenges. The project leverages cross-border collaboration, pooling resources and expertise from Finland, Sweden, Estonia, and Latvia, and builds on six ongoing Central Baltic projects.
This collaborative effort is crucial for navigating international barriers and leveraging regional strengths, setting a precedent for future international cooperation and positioning Central Baltic SMEs at the forefront of global urban innovation.
The ICC project's anticipated impact extends beyond merely growing and internationalizing SMEs; it aims to contribute significantly to sustainable urban development megaprojects worldwide.
The total budget for the project is approximately 1.8 million EUR, shared among the lead partner and three other project partners.
