On October 30, 2024, Smart Cities Marketplace (SCM) joined the URBACT Poland Workshop, which brought together more than 20 representatives from Polish local authorities working on energy transition. The event provided a unique opportunity for the participants to better understand the perspective of private investors as cities prepare to implement their Integrated Action Plans.
SCM’s presentations opened the “Meet the Founders” session, which connected city representatives with national and international institutions, including the European Investment Bank, the World Bank, and the Polish Development Fund.
The participants learned how to begin engaging private partners, supported by Smart Cities Marketplace’s tailored services, which include advisory support, matchmaking opportunities, and access to knowledge repositories. Tommaso Buso from Bankers without Boundaries helped participants better understand private investors’ priorities, project bankability, and risk assessment processes.
The workshop also introduced cities to less traditional financing options, such as sustainability-linked bonds and public-private partnerships.
The event offered practical guidance to help cities navigate complex financial landscapes. SCM’s presentation generated considerable interest, emphasizing the critical role of bridging public and private finance to advance sustainable urban projects.
