About the European Data Space for Smart Communities
The European Data Space for Smart Communities (DS4SSCC-DEP) represents the transition from preparation to deployment of the Data Space for Sustainable and Smart Cities and Communities (DS4SSCC). Both actions are funded by the European Commission under the Digital Europe programme.
DS4SSCC is focused on sustainability and the diversity of local communities. It laid the foundations for the European Data Space by defining how data should be governed by different stakeholders, creating a common blueprint, identifying key datasets, and setting out a roadmap for future development.
Building on this work, DS4SSCC-DEP aims to create a shared, well-governed data space for smart communities. This place-based, federated data space will be accessible to developers and infrastructure providers and will support many different domains. It aligns with Europe’s Digital Decade goals and goes beyond sector-specific data spaces by supporting cooperation and governance across all levels of society.
Key Objectives
Create a large-scale, federated data space managed by public data holders. This includes ensuring it fits with the Smart Middleware Platform and wider data space ecosystems, and providing the technical solutions needed for safe and efficient data sharing.
Objective 1
Establishing a Federated and innovative Data Space.
Testing the Blueprint through real pilots
Run 10–12 cross-sector pilots in European communities to test and improve the data space blueprint. These pilots use shared high-value datasets to show practical benefits, support sustainability planning, and reduce the need for new infrastructure.
Strengthening the ecosystem and supporting innovation
Work with stakeholders to ensure legal compliance, connect with Horizon Europe missions, and offer services through trusted catalogues. This objective also promotes ethical practices and supports the development of AI-enabled local solutions.
Building a shared and secure data space