Cities not only emit a high proportion of global CO2-emissions, they can also make a significant contribution to achieving climate neutrality through suitable environmental initiatives. Compared to large cities, small and medium-sized cities have to cope with this transformation with limited financial and human resources. As such, the question of financing urban initiatives and infrastructure in small and medium-sized cities is highly relevant.

The study is based on a document and project ana¬lysis of existing FIs and supplementary interviews. Focus groups, national and international case studies complete the research design. Results of the study:
- Overview of existing financing instruments at the national and international level that are relevant for sustainable urban develop¬ment in Austrian small and medium-sized towns
- Insights into international case studies that have successfully used EIB loans and ELENA funds
- Interactive information tool for small and medium-sized towns
- Conclusions and recommendations