Kaunas received significant international recognition after being named Emerging City of the Year in Central and Eastern Europe at the 14th annual Central and Eastern European Business Services Awards held in Warsaw on 25–26 February.
Each year, the European Business Services Association recognises the most outstanding achievements in the business services sector in Central and Eastern Europe. Winners are selected based on the evaluation of an independent commission, which accounts for two-thirds of the points, and participant voting, which accounts for the remaining one-third.
Strong Competitors Make for an Even Sweeter Victory
This year’s awards featured a total of 14 nominations, with 89 companies and separately nominated cities from Central and Eastern Europe making the shortlist. In the Emerging City of the Year category, Kaunas competed alongside strong regional contender Katowice (Poland).
“These kinds of recognitions show that Kaunas is growing consistently, strategically and with confidence. Businesses trust us, invest here and create new jobs. Modern business needs speed, clear decisions and drive – and this is exactly what Kaunas offers.
Many new bridges and infrastructure projects are being developed exclusively with the funds of Kaunas residents. Investment flows into the city are increasing, with development taking place across various areas, ranging from nationally significant projects to sports, education, and healthcare. This strengthens the city’s attractiveness to both domestic and international investors.
We welcome this new recognition and thank the entire city community, as this is an achievement we share together,” says Visvaldas Matijošaitis, Mayor of Kaunas.
Attractive City for International Talent
For Kaunas, this victory represents more than just a diploma or title. Awards of this level serve as an international mark of quality, helping open up more doors for conversations with investors, strengthening confidence in the city, and increasing its appeal to those considering relocating to work, start a business, or study in Kaunas.
The city’s growing international profile is also reflected in its academic community. Today, more than 1,000 international students study at Kaunas University of Technology (KTU), many of whom have chosen Kaunas as their home for several years.
According to a recent survey, 80 per cent of international students would recommend Kaunas as a place to live and study. Students highlight the city’s balance between a lively cultural scene and a comfortable quality of life, as well as opportunities to build international careers after graduation.
