NetZeroCities functions as a support platform rather than a traditional organization, operating as a consortium of 34 leading city networks and research institutions across 13 countries. Coordinated by EIT Climate-KIC, Europe's largest climate innovation partnership, the project launched in October 2021 under the Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme supporting the European Union's Green Deal.
The initiative directly supports the EU's Mission for 100 Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities by 2030, which selected cities representing 12 percent of the EU population. NetZeroCities provides these cities with tailored expertise across energy, buildings, waste management, and transport sectors. The platform operates a one-stop-shop model where cities access tools, resources, and dedicated City Guides who help navigate climate transformation strategies.
Rather than implementing projects directly, NetZeroCities facilitates municipal climate action through several mechanisms. It supports the development of politically binding Climate City Contracts, which outline comprehensive decarbonization plans. The initiative also funds pilot projects in participating cities—such as Brussels's EMPOWER program, which promotes local energy independence through solar power and inclusive governance models.
The organization offers peer learning through online discussion groups, courses like the "Design your City's Net Zero Strategy: Online Planning Lab," and a twinning process that connects cities for knowledge exchange. The €360 million funding from Horizon Europe covers support until September 2025, with operations centered around the Brussels-based network, reflecting the EU's institutional presence in Belgium while maintaining active engagement across European municipalities of varying sizes and development stages.