500 municipalities from the Western Balkans to benefit from free public WiFi

Municipalities in the Western Balkans can apply to benefit from the WiFi4WB (Wi-Fi for Western Balkans) initiative, which will provide free Wi-Fi hotspots to up to 500 municipalities across the Western Balkans. Wi-Fi access points will be installed in public spaces such as squares, parks, libraries, museums, and schools, providing free and reliable internet access for residents and visitors.

Participating municipalities will receive comprehensive support, including supply and installation of Wi-Fi equipment, internet service and maintenance. In return, municipalities are required to commit to maintaining the service beyond the initial funding period, ensuring long-term sustainability and impact.

The public call is open to all municipalities from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo*, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia – and applications must be submitted by the Mayor/Head of Municipality, an official employed by the municipality, or a member of the municipal council.

Wifi4WB is part of the EU’s Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, emphasizing digital transformation as a key driver for regional integration. The program seeks to bridge the digital divide, boost economic opportunities, and empower local communities by ensuring universal internet access.

WiFi4WB 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 residents and visitors alike.

Deadline for application: 28.04.2025

For more information on how to apply and participate in WiFi4WB, visit wifi4wb.eu

*This designation is without prejudice to positions on status, and is in line with UNSCR 1244/1999 and ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo declaration of independence