Discover the finalists of the 2026 REGIOSTARS Awards: vote for the People’s Choice Award!
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
- Stronger Rural Areas
- Connected rural areas
- Resilient rural areas
- Prosperous rural areas
The annual REGIOSTARS Awards, organised by the European Commission’s DG REGIO, celebrate outstanding EU-funded projects advancing regional development. Vote for the People’s Choice Award between 3 September and 14 October!
Image by JR on Canva
The 2026 REGIOSTARS Awards will recognise projects in five key priority areas for the EU’s regional policy:
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A competitive and smart Europe: promoting competitiveness, innovation and economic resilience;
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A green Europe: advancing the green transition as the enabler of regional development;
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A connected Europe: enhancing mobility and connectivity between regions;
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A social and inclusive Europe: achieving a more inclusive Europe by harnessing regional talents;
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A Europe closer to citizens: fostering the sustainable development of all types of territories.
A jury of high-level academics has selected 25 finalists in these five categories. Among them, the DREAM_PACE, SmartCommUnity and Housing for Roma Inclusion projects specifically address issues relevant for rural revitalisation, including rural connectivity, digital innovation and housing for marginalised people through Community-led Local Development.
The finalists will present their projects to the jury and a live audience during the upcoming European Week of Regions and Cities in Brussels. The public can vote online for their favourite between 3 September and 14 October (midday) which will help decide the winner of the People’s Choice Award.
The winners will be announced during the REGIOSTARS ceremony on 14 October in Brussels.