The organizers of the UK City of Culture competition have announced a shortlist of four candidates for the title of UK City of Culture 2029. The finalists are Blackpool, Milton Keynes, Sheffield and Wrexham. Each of these cities submitted an application with a cultural development program, hoping to obtain the honorary status and substantial financial support. The competition winner will receive a grant of 10 million pounds sterling, which will be directed toward developing cultural infrastructure and hosting events during the year the city holds the title. The UK City of Culture designation is awarded every few years and is designed to stimulate economic and cultural development in regions outside the country's traditional cultural centers, such as London. Previous title holders have noted that the status of cultural capital attracts tourists, investments and raises the city's international profile. The competition organizers evaluate submissions not only in terms of cultural programming, but also considering the potential impact on the local economy and community. The final decision on the winner will be announced later, after a detailed assessment of all four applications by a special commission. Residents and authorities of the finalist cities continue campaigns in support of their applications, emphasizing the unique cultural characteristics and potential of each.