Lake City: cross-border innovation and sustainability

Context

In brief

• Six classes awarded for innovative projects
• 15,000 euros in scholarships and equipment
• Ceremony in Mendrisio on May 19

• What: Awarding of projects for the 'Lake City'
• When: May 19, 2026
• Where: Hotel Coronado, Mendrisio
• Who: High schools in the Canton of Ticino and the provinces of Como and Varese
• Amount: 15,000 euros in prizes

Six classes from high schools in the Canton of Ticino and the provinces of Como and Varese have been awarded for their projects dedicated to the development of the 'Lake City', a cross-border entity that looks to the future through innovation and sustainability. The work was carried out as part of the 'The Intelligent Lake City: Ideas for the Future' competition, promoted by the Insubric Working Group of the Rotary. The competition saw the participation of clubs from Cantù, Como, Lugano, Lugano Lago, Mendrisiotto, and Varese. The initiative aims to stimulate young people to imagine concrete solutions for the territory, with prizes that include scholarships and technological equipment for a total value of 15,000 euros.

The concept of the 'Lake City'

The concept of the 'Lake City' is the result of an analysis developed by the Academy of Architecture of Mendrisio. This project is considered of fundamental importance to ensure development prospects for an area where the added value generated by the economic system exceeds one hundred billion euros. The area in question comprises a triangle that, starting from Malpensa, passing through Verbania, Como, and Varese, reaches its vertex in the Canton of Ticino and closes at Lecco. The goal is not only to preserve but to increase job opportunities for young people, who are often attracted to more lucrative territories compared to their qualified skills.

The closing ceremony

The closing ceremony of the competition will take place on Tuesday, May 19, at the Hotel Coronado in Mendrisio. Starting at 18:30, students will present their proposals for an increasingly interconnected 'Lake City', addressing central themes such as cross-border mobility, clean energy, and social inclusion. The event will be attended by institutional representatives from both sides of the border and a jury composed of prominent figures from Insubric civil life. Among the six finalist projects selected by a group of experts, the one considered most significant and with the greatest positive impact for the future of the territory will be chosen.

Implications for cross-border workers

This project could have a significant impact on cross-border workers who work in the Canton of Ticino and reside in the provinces of Como and Varese. The 'Lake City' could improve cross-border mobility, making commuting easier and improving the quality of life for those who cross the border daily. Furthermore, the focus on clean energy and social inclusion could lead to new job opportunities and a more sustainable environment for all residents of the Insubric region.

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Operational details

Analysis of Opportunities

The 'Città dei Laghi' project represents a great opportunity for the young people of the Insubric territory. The scholarships and technological equipment offered as prizes can be a springboard for careers in the fields of innovation and sustainability. Furthermore, the projects presented could be implemented in the future, improving the quality of life and employment opportunities for all residents of the region.

Currently, the Insubric territory is characterized by a strong propensity for export and a dynamic economy. However, many qualified young people are attracted to more remunerative territories. The 'Città dei Laghi' project aims to reverse this trend, offering new job opportunities and improving infrastructure for cross-border mobility. This could make the region more attractive to young talents and foster local economic development.

Future Scenarios

If the 'Città dei Laghi' project is successfully implemented, we could see an increase in job opportunities in the fields of innovation and sustainability. Additionally, cross-border mobility could become more efficient, reducing travel times and improving the quality of life for commuters. Finally, the focus on clean energy and social inclusion could lead to greater social cohesion and a more sustainable environment for all residents of the Insubric region.

How Cross-Border Workers Can Benefit

Cross-border workers who work in the Canton Ticino and reside in the provinces of Como and Varese can benefit from the initiatives of the 'Città dei Laghi' project. Improvements in cross-border mobility could make daily commuting easier, while new job opportunities in the fields of innovation and sustainability could offer new career prospects. Furthermore, a more sustainable and inclusive environment could improve the quality of life for all residents of the region.

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Key points

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1. Try TioABO for 7 days to access exclusive content and no ads. 4. Follow the activities of the Insubric Working Group of the Rotary to stay updated on job opportunities and sustainability initiatives. 5. Attend events organized by the Insubric Working Group of the Rotary to discover new opportunities and network with other professionals in the field.

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Conclusion

The 'Città dei Laghi' project represents a great opportunity for the young people of the Insubric territory and for the cross-border workers who work in the Canton of Ticino. Improvements in cross-border mobility, new job opportunities, and a more sustainable environment could improve the quality of life for all residents in the region.