Starting today, municipalities in the Western Balkans can apply to benefit from the WiFi4WB (Wi-Fi for the Western Balkans) initiative, which will provide free Wi-Fi hotspots for up to 500 municipalities across the region.
The Wi-Fi access points will be installed in public spaces such as squares, parks, libraries, museums, and schools, ensuring free and reliable internet access for residents and visitors alike.
Participating municipalities will receive comprehensive support, including the supply and installation of Wi-Fi equipment, internet service, and maintenance. In return, municipalities must commit to maintaining the service beyond the initial funding period, ensuring long-term sustainability and impact.
The public call is open to municipalities from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia. Applications must be submitted by the mayor, a municipal employee, or a municipal council member.
WiFi4WB is part of the EU Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, emphasizing digital transformation as a key driver for regional integration. The program aims to bridge the digital divide, boost economic opportunities, and empower local communities by ensuring universal internet access.
The initiative is part of the EU4Digital Action, funded by the European Union (EU) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), and implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ).
Inspired by the successful WiFi4EU initiative, which provided free Wi-Fi to nearly 9,000 municipalities across Europe, WiFi4WB extends this vision to the Western Balkans, equipping municipalities with the tools to enhance digital infrastructure and enrich the lives of both residents and visitors.
By submitting an application, municipalities agree to participate in the WiFi4WB initiative and receive free public Wi-Fi, including technical equipment, installation, and maintenance for up to three years. The exact timeline will be determined once internet service providers are selected.
After the fully funded period, municipalities commit to covering the internet service cost for at least one additional year, ensuring continuity and long-term sustainability of public internet access.
The deadline for municipal applications is April 28, 2025.