The IN-PLAN Capacity-Building is back – an opportunity you can’t afford to miss! 

The IN-PLAN Train the Trainer programme is back with its fourth edition! This unique free online capacity-building opportunity is designed for energy, climate, and development agencies eager to develop integrated spatial planning strategies. Through expert guidance, collaborative activities, and peer-to-peer learning opportunities, you will gain valuable insights and practical skills that will enable you to support local and regional authorities in adopting the IN-PLAN practice. 

Why is this training important? 

In today’s world, the need for integrated spatial planning is more urgent than ever. As urban areas expand and climate change accelerates, planning processes must be more comprehensive, inclusive, and forward-thinking. The IN-PLAN programme provides the knowledge and tools to meet these challenges by teaching agencies how to create sustainable and resilient spatial plans. 

This training offers theoretical understanding and hands-on activities that will allow you to apply these concepts to real-world challenges. You’ll walk away with actionable solutions and methods for implementing them in your territory. 

What’s new in the 4th edition? 

This edition introduces a refreshed agenda and highlights the importance of the IN-PLAN Practice, a key component designed to revolutionise how local and regional authorities integrate climate, energy, and spatial planning. The IN-PLAN Practice is not just a theoretical framework—it’s a long-lasting support structure developed to help authorities across Europe align their sustainability efforts with land use, infrastructure, sustainable transport and economic development plans. 

Many local authorities have ambitious climate neutrality targets but face significant challenges in translating these goals into actionable plans. The IN-PLAN Practice offers a practical, integrated solution, enabling local governments to align their spatial development frameworks with energy and climate objectives. This alignment is essential as it ensures that sustainable mobility, renewable energy, and climate adaptation are embedded into every aspect of urban and regional growth. 

During this fourth edition, participants will gain firsthand experience with the Practice, exploring real-world case studies and working on assignments that apply the Practice’s principles. They will learn how to overcome common challenges such as siloed sectoral planning, lack of resources, and insufficient stakeholder coordination. Here’s a glimpse of what to expect over the three-day online training, which spans 7.5 hours across three mornings: 

Day 1 – 19th November 2024 (10:00 to 12:30 CET) 

• Welcome and Introduction to IN-PLAN 
  Overview of the programme and introduction to key topics. 

• Introduction to Spatial Planning 
  Learn the basics of spatial planning and why it is crucial in today’s context. 

• Focus Area Discussion and Workshop 
  Engage in discussions and workshops on specific areas of interest related to spatial planning. 

• IN-PLAN Practice 
  Explore actionable solutions using the IN-PLAN Practice, tailored to help you address local challenges. 

• Assignment Introduction: Evaluation of Local Issues Workshop 
  Begin group work by discussing challenges your city faces and inputting data into Mural. 

Day 2 – 26th November 2024 (10:00 to 12:30 CET) 

• Case Studies 
  Two case studies focusing on the areas of interest identified on Day 1 will be presented, showcasing practical examples of integrated spatial planning. 

• Assignment Activity 
  Continue working on the group assignment using templates and questions provided to develop solutions for your region. 

Day 3 – 3rd December 2024 (10:00 to 12:30 CET) 

• Leadership and Communication in Spatial Planning 
  A presentation on leadership skills and effective communication strategies for spatial planning. 

• Final Preparation and Presentations 
  Participants will present their assignments and receive feedback in a collaborative environment. 

• Closing Comments 
  Summary of key takeaways and the next steps for applying the IN-PLAN practice in your own context. 

Is this programme for you? 

This programme is perfect for you if: 

• You work in an energy, climate, or development agency and want to support your territory in developing integrated spatial planning. 

• You need guidance on integrating spatial plans into local development. 

• You’re seeking practical tools to navigate data, involve stakeholders, and start your spatial planning journey. 

• You want to learn from best practices and case studies from across Europe. 

Don’t miss this opportunity! 

By participating in at least 60 percent of the IN-PLAN online programme, you will not only receive a Digital Badge credential as an official IN-PLAN multiplier but also gain access to continued support and networking opportunities with peers across Europe. 

Applications are open until 15th November at 5 pm CET. Apply now to secure your spot and help your local authorities embrace integrated spatial planning. 

For more information and to apply, visit the IN-PLAN website.