MICAD is a three-year project led by METROPOLIS – Association Mondiale Des Grandes Metropoles. It is funded by the Horizon programme through the Horizon – Research and Innovation action. ALDA’s specific role is to use the results and lessons learnt to develop comprehensive advocacy activities aimed at European institutions and national governments of the MICAD authorities participating in the consortium. We are ensuring that the impactful results from the project are shared and can lead to broader systemic changes.
ALDA is one protagonist of the green and digital transitions in metropolitan areas through the MICAD project!
By coordinating communication and exploitation activities and promoting replicability, ALDA is a key partner for extending the success of the green and digital transitions to other metropolitan areas.
A new framework for inclusive green and digital transitions
The MICAD project is set to enhance how metropolitan authorities approach climate and digital transitions, placing inclusivity and multilevel governance at its core. With climate and digital transitions becoming central priorities at the European policy level—through initiatives such as the EU Green Deal and the 100 Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities Mission—metropolitan areas must develop strategies that integrate sustainability with digital transformation. Led by a consortium of experts, MICAD will provide local and metropolitan authorities across Europe and beyond with actionable tools to navigate these critical transitions effectively.
A multilevel governance approach to co-planning
One of the project’s main strengths is its focus on multilevel governance. By integrating local, regional, international, and transnational governance perspectives, MICAD aims to create a robust framework for co-planning policies. These transitions are not isolated but complementary forces shaping the future of governance, requiring transdisciplinary collaboration to align ambitions, fill knowledge gaps, and strengthen cooperation. MICAD ensures that climate and digital transitions are not only effective but also equitable, benefiting all members of society.
Co-designing roadmaps and a toolkit for a more inclusive future
At the heart of MICAD lies the co-design of five Roadmaps for digital and climate transitions, each developed with a metropolitan-inclusive perspective. These Roadmaps will serve as strategic guides for European cities and metropolitan authorities participating in the project, fostering collaboration and best practice sharing. Additionally, the project will co-develop a toolkit aimed at supporting local and metropolitan authorities in designing inclusive policies for climate and digital transitions, ensuring these frameworks can be adapted beyond Europe.
Kick-off meeting in Chișinău, Moldova
From March 12th to March 14th, the MICAD consortium gathered in Chisinau, Moldova, for the project’s official kick-off meeting. This event brought together all partner organisations, laying the foundation for strong collaboration and a shared vision in implementing inclusive metropolitan transitions. The meeting provided an opportunity to align on project goals, discuss methodologies, and set the stage for the development of the Roadmaps and toolkit.
As part of the kick-off meeting, the first General Assembly of the project was held, ensuring that all partners were aligned on governance structures and key priorities. Additionally, an open session took place with the main goal of introducing the project to local key stakeholders, including government officials, civil society representatives and academics, in order to shared visions and concerns, collect insights and recommendations, and to enhance effectiveness and connections with external actors who may benefit from MICAD.
On behalf of ALDA, the kick-off meeting was attended by Rebecca Marconi, Project Manager of MICAD, Elisabetta Pinamonti, Head of the Financial Department, Beatrice Guerra, Financial Officer, and Viorica Tudos, Director of ALDA’s Office in Chisinau.
Building on expertise and collaboration
MICAD is implemented by a diverse consortium of partners, each bringing unique expertise in metropolitan planning, governance, and digital and climate transitions. By fostering multi-stakeholder dialogue and participatory policymaking, the project builds on previous initiatives in the field, ensuring continuity and innovation in the development of inclusive policies.
The consortium includes:
- METROPOLIS –Association Mondiale des Grandes Metropoles (FR)
- ALDA – Association Européenne pour la Démocratie Locale (FR)
- MRI – Metropolitan Research Institute Varoskutatas KFT (HU)
- Chișinău Municipality – Primăria Municipiului Chișinău (MD)
- City of Tirana – Bashkia Tirane (AL)
- AMB – Àrea Metropolitana De Barcelona (ES)
- GZM Metropolis – Górnośląsko-Zagłębiowska Metropolia (PL)
- ENoLL – European Network of Living Labs IVZW (BE)
- CMM – Città Metropolitana di Milano (IT)
- IM – Institut Metropoli (ES)
- KENTYOU (FR)
- HES-SO – Haute Ecole Spécialisée De Suisse Occidentale (CH)
- UTA – Urban Technology Alliance Association (CH)
This strong partnership ensures that MICAD benefits from a transdisciplinary approach, aligning research, policy, and practical implementation to create real impact.
Stay connected and follow MICAD’s progress
By prioritising inclusivity and multilevel governance, MICAD is paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable metropolitan future. The project will not only equip authorities with essential tools but also foster a collaborative approach to climate and digital transitions, ensuring that no one is left behind. As MICAD unfolds, stakeholders and the public are invited to stay informed through ALDA website and the project’s social media channels.
