ENoLL at URBIS 2026: Advancing Living Labs for Smart and Resilient Cities

From 2 to 4 June 2026, URBIS 2026 will bring together city leaders, innovators, and stakeholders at the Brno Exhibition Centre to explore practical solutions for smarter, more resilient municipalities.

The European Network of Living Labs (ENoLL) will play a key role in this year’s programme, with high-level contributions from Wim De Kinderen, alongside colleagues Marta I. De Los Ríos White and Koen Vervoort.

Living Labs at the Heart of Collaborative Innovation

As cities and regions face increasingly complex challenges, from climate adaptation to digital transformation, collaborative innovation has become essential. Living Labs provide a proven methodology to co-create solutions with citizens, businesses, academia, and public authorities in real-life environments.

During the opening session on 2 June, Wim De Kinderen will deliver a keynote highlighting:

• The strategic value of Living Labs
• Their role in strengthening competitiveness
• The importance of stakeholder engagement in shaping sustainable urban futures

His keynote will set the stage for understanding how Living Labs contribute to the development of smart cities and communities, while also offering recommendations for future success.

From Strategy to Practice: ENoLL Living Labs Session

On 3 June, Marta I. De Los Ríos White and Koen Vervoort will take part in a dedicated Living Labs session, moving from strategy to practical implementation.

The session will include:

• A moderated dialogue exploring real-world application of Living Labs
• Insights into key prerequisites for successful implementation
• Contributions from industry representatives, including Czech stakeholders

The second part will adopt a dynamic PechaKucha format, showcasing certified Living Labs and their impact across Europe.

Meet ENoLL Throughout the Event

Beyond the main sessions, ENoLL experts will be available throughout the event at the BVV Living Lab booth, offering participants the opportunity to:

• Discuss their own initiatives
• Receive tailored advice on implementing Living Labs
• Exchange experiences and best practices

Additionally, Wim De Kinderen will represent ENoLL in a closed-door S3 workshop, contributing to strategic discussions on innovation and regional development.

Driving Impact Through Collaboration

ENoLL’s participation in URBIS 2026 reinforces the importance of Living Labs as a driver of inclusive, sustainable, and scalable innovation.

By bridging strategic vision with practical tools, ENoLL continues to support cities and regions in navigating complex transitions and building resilient futures.