The Bay Awards

The Bay Awards

Key Facts

Locations:

Bilbao (Biscay, Spain)

Opening and closing date:

09/03/2026 - 29/05/2026

Challenge area:

Future Mobility

Mobility Infrastructure

Offered by:

EIT Urban Mobility

Bilbao bridge view

The Challenge

The Bay Awards recognise pioneering urban projects and initiatives that respond to major urban challenges such as sustainability, inclusion, resilience, connectivity, prosperity and long-term strategic transformation.

They focus on bold, transferable solutions that can inspire cities worldwide and strengthen international collaboration around urban innovation.

Who can apply?

Eligible applicants include:

  • Cities
  • Metropolitan areas
  • Regions
  • Institutions
  • Entities
  • Companies
  • Universities, NGOs, foundations, research centres, public agencies and partnerships

Only the Urban Pioneers Award is exclusively for cities, metropolitan areas and regions. 

Winners receive:

  • International visibility and recognition
  • Presentation opportunities at The Bay Awards Summit in Bilbao
  • Inclusion in a global repository of leading urban projects
  • Access to an international network of cities, institutions, and urban leaders

Three finalists per category are invited to present at the Summit, with winners announced during the Awards Ceremony. 

Background

Created by Bilbao Metropoli 30, The Bay Awards were launched to promote an “urban revolution” by showcasing successful city transformation models worldwide. Inspired by Bilbao’s own long-term regeneration journey, the awards aim to connect global urban actors and encourage collaborative, strategic responses to today’s biggest city challenges.