Request for proposal:

Request for proposals: Market study cargo bike training in Italy and Germany

By the present procurement procedure, EIT Urban Mobility, hereinafter referred to as “EIT UM”, is aiming to identify multiple suppliers (hereinafter referred to as “Suppliers” or “Providers”) capable of producing a comprehensive market study on training needs in cargo bike logistics and delivery among logistics and distribution companies, small business owners, and delivery riders in Italy and Germany. The study will serve as a foundational input for potential future capacity-building initiatives, including the possible development of a blended training course on the subject.

This document, along with its annexes, constitutes a Request for Proposal (RFP) issued by EIT Urban Mobility for a potential procurement of services and is structured as a multi-winner tender process. Two independent contracts will be awarded—one covering the Italian market and the other one covering the German market.

The objective of the study is to map the current training offer and existing skills needs within the cargo-bike logistics sector in each country. The analysis should take into account the specific characteristics of each national context, including varying levels of sector maturity and relevant local regulations.

Each work package will be evaluated separately, and selection may result in two distinct providers. Each offer will be judged based on the provider’s experience and knowledge in the specific market they propose to cover.

European cities face increasing challenges to provide effective, resilient, and low-emission transport networks that improve liveability and support economic activity while curbing their environmental footprint. Local authorities are increasingly seeking sustainable last-mile delivery alternatives, and cargo-bikes represent a key solution—reducing traffic congestion, emissions, and operational costs while enabling access to restricted urban zones.

Despite their potential, cargo bikes are not yet fully integrated into national transport and logistics frameworks. Differences in policy, infrastructure, business models, and cultural perceptions have led to an uneven uptake across Europe. In many cases, cargo-bike logistics is not seen as an equal mode of freight transport and lacks formalised training, regulation, and support.

With this RfP, EIT Urban Mobility seeks to understand these disparities in two key European countries—Italy and Germany—through detailed market studies that will inform on the current situation and the development potential of a standardised, scalable training offer. This will contribute directly to the advancement of sustainable urban mobility and professionalisation of last-mile logistics.

This research is intended to directly inform about the current situation and development potential in both markets. It may lead to the creation of an EIT UM training course on the subject, with the objective to meet the needs of a diverse and evolving urban logistics landscape, where cargo-bikes are increasingly replacing vans and motorised vehicles in last-mile delivery operations. While not part of the required work in this RfP, such future training initiative may aim to equip participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills for effective cargo-bike operation in urban environments, depending on the needs identified through this study. This could include safe riding practices, understanding national traffic regulations, basic maintenance, and efficient handling of urban deliveries using cargo bikes.

To support this, the study should gather insights into existing training programmes, relevant public and private initiatives, regulatory requirements, and the level of interest among key urban delivery stakeholders and businesses, as further outlined below.

Check the Request for Proposals here.

To apply, please send the completed and signed the Tender’s Submission and Declaration Form.

Deadline for submissions: 5 September 2025 at 16.00 (CET)