CitizenCity (DS4SSCC)

Description

CitizenCity is a European funded project supporting the creation of three pilot use cases, each deploying an emerging data space and new digital services based on local priorities. These pilots follow the guidelines and blueprint provided by the Data Space Support Centre, using existing platforms to build smart solutions for cities and communities. The project also introduces a shared methodology for stakeholder engagement and a model to validate and scale results.

• The Oulu use case creates a Cross-Sectoral Participation Dataspace integrated with a Digital Twin, enabling voice-based AI communication with citizens to enhance public services, transparency, and sustainable behavior.
• The Eindhoven use case focuses on a Positive Energy District, using the Stratum data platform to combine energy, liveability, and social resilience data while encouraging citizen-led sustainable renovations.
• The Álava use case in Spain develops a mobility-focused data platform (NIEVES) to improve road safety and transport efficiency during extreme winter conditions, engaging road teams and citizens alike.

Oulu Use Case – Cross-Sectoral Smart City Data Pilot

The Oulu pilot takes place in the Hartaanselkä district—a new urban development area and site of the Oulu Housing Fair. It focuses on building a Cross-Sectoral Participation Dataspace integrated with a local Digital Twin to improve communication between the city and its residents. An AI chatbot with voice interaction will serve as the main interface, making it easier for citizens to access information and engage with public services.

This pilot is part of the “Oulu Data Spaces (ODS)” initiative, developed under the Oulu Innovation Alliance and aligned with the European Data Spaces framework. The first phase (until 2025) includes data services related to waste, water, energy, traffic, and public transport. In the next phases (2026–2030), the pilot will expand across the city, integrating more advanced AI tools, dashboards, and predictive analytics.

ODS follows clear operational principles

• Transparency of governance
• Identification of participants
• Semi-open, fair use
• Compliance with EU regulations
• Interoperability via shared models and standards
• Fair business practices and contractual clarity
• Local contribution to a broader “Oulu Data Space” concept

Through this system, public services will be enhanced, new citizen participation models introduced, and tools created for the regional, national, and European data economy. The platform will also offer organizations and businesses the opportunity to connect to larger European data spaces.

How the Oulu Pilot Creates Impact

The Oulu use case provides a scalable and citizen-centric smart city model that:

• Enables participation via interactive digital twins and AI-driven services
• Improves transparency and communication through accessible dashboards
• Supports innovation and the local data economy by encouraging data sharing and skill development
• Contributes to sustainability goals, including zero-pollution actions and smart energy management
• Builds trust through secure, compliant, and standardized data exchange practices

By embedding these services into city processes, the pilot ensures long-term usability, setting a model for other city regions to follow across Europe.

Partner Organizations

Want to Find Out More?

To find out more information, you can contact one of the following from BusinessOulu: