REGIOSTARS 2026

The application phase for REGIOSTARS 2026 is open! We are looking for the most inspiring and innovative regional projects in the EU.

Since 2008, the REGIOSTARS awards have been recognising cohesion-funded projects across Europe that demonstrate excellence, inclusiveness, and new approaches in regional development.

The awards are given in five thematic categories:

• A competitive and smart Europe: Promoting competitiveness, innovation and economic resilience
• A green Europe: The green transition as the enabler of regional development
• A connected Europe: Enhancing mobility and connectivity between regions
• A social and inclusive Europe: Achieving a more inclusive Europe by harnessing regional talents
• A Europe closer to the citizens: Fostering the sustainable development of all types of territories

To be eligible, the project must be fully completed and co-financed by EU funds from 2014 onwards. It should demonstrate significant results at the regional level.

Guiding questions: Has the project brought about positive local changes and strengthened regional cohesion? Have innovative solutions been developed with the active involvement of citizens? Are the economic, social, or environmental results sustainably effective even after the project’s conclusion? And could the project serve as a model on a European level?

If you are interested in participating in the competition with your project, please contact the Joint Secretariat by 17 April 2026 via the Helpdesk https://cohemon.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portal/6. The Joint Secretariat and the Managing Authority will review the applications and select a maximum of five projects permitted to enter the competition. As soon as you have received the approval and the Endorsement Letter from the Joint Secretariat, you can apply independently via the EUSurvey platform no later than 22 May 2026.

The 25 finalists will be announced on 14 July and will pitch their projects to an independent expert jury in mid-October 2026 during the European Week of Regions and Cities in Brussels, where the winners will be selected. In addition, a Public Choice Award will be given, for which one project among the finalists will be chosen via a public online vote (from September to mid-October).

The official REGIOSTARS award ceremony will take place in mid-October 2026 in Brussels. In addition to the award, the winners will be involved in follow-up activities and a local communication campaign, carried out in cooperation with DG REGIO from 1 November 2026 onwards, to promote the awarded projects in their region.

All information, including the guide for applicants, FAQs, the application form template, and the Endorsement Letter template, can be found here: : Inforegio – REGIOSTARS Awards.