About European Data Space for Smart Communities

The European Data Space for Smart Communities (DS4SSCC-DEP) initiative is a pivotal deployment action following the preparatory phase for Data Space for Sustainable and Smart Cities and Communities (DS4SSCC). The preparatory phase for Data Space for Sustainable and Smart Cities and Communities (DS4SSCC) laid the foundation for European Data Space for Smart Communities (DS4SSCC-DEP). Emphasizing sustainability aspects and diversity in communities, DS4SSCC developed a multi-stakeholder data governance scheme, created a blueprint for the European DS4SSCC, delivered priority datasets, developed a roadmap towards a mature DS4SSCC, and implemented the data space on various governance levels.

DS4SSCC-DEP’s vision revolves around creating a well-governed data space available for developers and infrastructure providers, aligning with the prospects outlined in Europe’s Digital Decade objectives.

Our vision is rooted in acknowledging data as a critical asset in contemporary society, akin to essential resources like water or food supplies. European Data Space for Smart Communities aims to build a territorial, place-based data space for smart communities. This approach distinguishes itself from sectorial data spaces by encompassing diverse domains, underpinning governance across all levels of society.

Initiative Aims

European Data Space for Smart Communities, building upon established European networks, aims to significantly contribute to the sustainability goals of European citizens. It emphasizes co-creation, standardisation, business models, strategies for data spaces, and envisions a federated platform.


This phase focuses on creating a large-scale data space controlled by public data holders, ensuring alignment with the Smart Middleware Platform and broader data space ecosystems. It also aims to offer middleware service solutions facilitating data sharing and management while refining the blueprint based on gained experience.

Objective 1

Establishing a Federated and Innovative Data Space.


This phase aims to create a large data space controlled by public data holders, aligning with the Smart Middleware Platform and broader data ecosystems. It focuses on providing middleware services for easier data sharing and management, refining the blueprint based on gained experience.

Objective 2

Pilots and Refinement of the Data Space Blueprint.

Objective 3

  • Engaging stakeholders

  • Compliance with sector-specific legislation

  • Establishing links with Horizon Europe missions

  • Creating services available via trusted application catalogues

  • Enhancing ethical considerations and AI-enabled local solutions constitute the focus of this objective

Fostering Innovation and Ecosystem Alignment.