Innovation Challenges for Students in Gothenburg Call

Do you want to help develop new ideas for future sustainable cities with students from across Europe? In May 2026, the EUTOPIA Innovation Challenges will finally take place in Gothenburg. During four intensive days, you will work with others to develop innovative solutions to real-life cases

PROGRAMME DESCRIPTION

This year’s Innovation Challenge takes its starting point in the city of Gothenburg. For many years, Gothenburg has worked actively with issues related to climate, mobility, urban development, and social sustainability. The city is part of the EU’s initiative for climate-neutral and smart cities, aiming to achieve climate neutrality by 2030.

During four intensive days, you will work on current challenges in collaboration with external partners. Based on real-life cases, you and your team will develop ideas and proposals that contribute in different ways to a more sustainable city.

The challenges address topics such as sustainable tourism, campus development, mobility, and everyday movement. What unites all themes is the focus on how we can create inclusive, well-functioning, and long-term sustainable urban environments. 

Gothenburg is widely recognised for its long-term work with sustainability. The city has received international recognition for its efforts in environmental and social sustainability, including repeated high rankings in global sustainability indexes for cities and destinations. Gothenburg is also part of the EU initiative for climate-neutral and smart cities, aiming to reach climate neutrality by 2030. These ambitions make Gothenburg a relevant and inspiring context for this year’s innovation challenge. 

Students will explore case-based challenges related to sustainable mobility, campus development, social sustainability in education, and sustainable tourism. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, participants will develop innovative ideas that contribute to more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cities. 

Subthemes and cases 

(More information to be shared with selected students to give preference regarding cases) 

  • Subtheme 1: Sustainable tourism (Göteborg & CO) :

The Gothenburg archipelago is a popular destination, but high visitor numbers during peak season put pressure on local infrastructure and everyday life, creating mixed experiences for residents. How can tourism minimize negative impacts and contribute positively to island life? How can visitors be encouraged to see themselves as guests, understand their impact, and actively support the wellbeing of the local community? 

  • Subtheme 2: Sustainable Campus development (Akademiska Hus) 

The University of Gothenburg is undergoing significant campus development and expansion. This creates an opportunity to shape vibrant and sustainable campus environments for the future. How can campus development at GU create attractive, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable places that support wellbeing, foster interaction, and meet the needs of students, researchers, staff, and visitors? 

  • Subtheme 3: Sustainable Movement (SMOVE) 

In line with the Swedish curriculum, schools are expected to ensure daily physical activity for all pupils. A municipal school in suburban Gothenburg, with a modern schoolyard and close access to green spaces, serves students aged 6–16. At the same time, social inequalities, diverse experiences and preferences, limited resources, and stretched staff create significant challenges. How can the school develop sustainable and inclusive movement strategies that are meaningfully integrated throughout the entire school day? 

  • Subtheme 4: Sustainable Mobility (Göteborg Stad) 

Still waiting for confirmation on the specific case.  

Why participate? 

  • Collaborate in interdisciplinary and intercultural teams
  • Work on real sustainability challenges together with external partners
  • Develop your skills in innovation and idea development
  • Take part in social activities and connect with students from other European countries

DATES

5 May (morning) – 8 May (early afternoon, we will probably wrap-up with lunch) 

contact and APPLICATION deadline

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