Another new endeavour starts – our ESPON SECC project “Spill-over effects of European capitals of culture on territorial development” aims at deepening the understanding of new territorial geographies and governance. As a reference case, we will research on four different Capitals of Culture in Portugal, Norway, Austria, and Hungary. A few days ago, this new ESPON project started for which inforelais partnered with HETFA in Hungary (lead), ÖIR in Austria, Nordregio in Norway as well as CRIA in Portugal. Key research questions will focus on how to best analyse territorial governance mechanisms. We will also develop methodologies to analyse the socioeconomic impacts of the European Capitals of Culture. Which lessons can be learned from these practices and methodologies? How can policy and decisionmakers on local, national and EU level can best bring forward these agendas? Which spillover effects to other sectors can potentially be generated? inforelais will be a strong partner in related strategic considerations and forward-looking policy recommendations. I would like to take the occasion to thank the whole team for the very good preparation and kick-off phase and look forward to intensive exchanges with the ESPON teams and the core stakeholders during this process.