Mission Cities: From Hope to Action?
Organised by the University of Stavanger, Nordic Edge and the City of Stavanger
In 2022, Stavanger was selected as one of 112 European Mission Cities, with the aim of achieving climate neutrality by 2030. But how do we move from political ambition to measurable progress? How do cities turn climate targets into systemic change?
This week, Stavanger hosts the European SUNSET Doctoral Network — a research and training initiative dedicated to strengthening city–university collaboration as a driver of the EU’s twin green and digital transition. Bringing together leading European researchers and practitioners, SUNSET creates a timely opportunity to examine how knowledge, governance and cross-sector partnerships must align if Mission Cities are to succeed.
This conversation sets the stage for Nordic Edge Expo 2026.
Join us for an afternoon where European ambition meets academic insight and local execution. Together, we explore what it takes to build resilient and inclusive societies in practice.
In the spirit of Nordic Edge Expo, this is where the conversation begins. We address the gap between ambition and implementation — and connect the actors who must work across sectors to close it.
Open to all and free to attend, this event offers a focused entry point into the themes that will shape Expo 2026. The dialogue continues at Nordic Edge Expo, where leadership, investment and practical solutions meet.
Programme:
18:00 Welcome - Terje Eide, Nordic Edge and Rune Dahl Fitjar, UiS
18:10 Markku Markkula, Vice-President European Committee of the Regions: How can European cities realize the vision of climate-neutral and smart cities?
18:30 Helene Gram: How is Stavanger turning hope into action?
18:45 Panel discussion: Markku Markkula, Taina Tukiainen, Niki Frantzeskaki, Helene Gram. Moderated by Marte Solheim.
19:25 Closing reflections
19:30 Reception
Speakers:
Markku Markkula, vice-president, European Committee of the Regions
Taina Tukiainen, professor of practice, University of Vaasa, and member of the EU Mission Board for Climate Adaptation
Niki Frantzeskaki, professor of regional and metropolitan governance and planning, Utrecht University
Helene Gram, programme director EU Missions, City of Stavanger
Marte Solheim, pro-rector for innovation and society, University of Stavanger
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