Deadline: September 9, 2025
The European Heritage Awards / Europa Nostra Awards 2026 are now officially open for submissions. This prestigious awards scheme recognises and celebrates outstanding achievements in the field of cultural heritage across Europe. If you’re an individual, organisation, or team involved in safeguarding, researching, or promoting cultural heritage, this is your opportunity to gain international recognition and support.
What are the European Heritage Awards / Europa Nostra Awards 2026?
The European Heritage Awards / Europa Nostra Awards 2026 aim to spotlight the most remarkable efforts in preserving Europe’s cultural legacy. Launched by Europa Nostra in collaboration with the European Commission, the awards are a flagship initiative of the EU’s cultural policy framework.
Launched on Europe Day (9 May 2025), this call invites cultural heritage professionals and enthusiasts to submit their projects under any of the programme’s five core categories.
Who Can Apply?
Applications are welcome from individuals, teams, and organisations working within the broad scope of cultural heritage—including tangible, intangible, digital, and natural heritage—anywhere in Europe.
Award Categories
Applicants may submit entries under any of the following five categories:
- Conservation & Adaptive Reuse
- Research
- Education, Training & Skills
- Citizens’ Engagement & Awareness-Raising
- Heritage Champions
These categories ensure inclusivity and representation across the many dimensions of European heritage work.
What Do Winners Receive?
A total of up to 30 exemplary achievements will be selected as winners. Among them:
- Up to five Grand Prix winners will receive €10,000 each.
- One Public Choice Award winner—chosen through an open online vote—will also receive €10,000.
In addition to the financial prizes, winners benefit from Europe-wide visibility, increased media attention, and connections to a wider heritage network.
Key Dates & Timeline
- Call Opened: 9 May 2025
- Webinars:
- Friday, 23 May 2025 | 12:00–13:00 CEST
- Monday, 30 June 2025 | 16:00–17:00 CEST
- Application Deadline: 9 September 2025, 23:59 CEST
- Awards Ceremony: 13 October 2025 in Brussels, during the European Cultural Heritage Summit at Flagey.
How to Apply
Submissions must be completed in English through the official online platform. To support applicants, Europa Nostra is offering two free information webinars to guide participants through the process and increase their chances of success.
📝 Click here to apply
🔍 Click here to read more about the programme
Why You Should Apply
Participating in the European Heritage Awards / Europa Nostra Awards 2026 offers:
- Prestige & Exposure: Recognition by the European Commission and Europa Nostra
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with leading professionals and organisations in cultural heritage
- Funding: Cash awards of up to €10,000
- Legacy: Inclusion in a heritage community striving to preserve Europe’s shared identity
Need Help With Your Application?
Crafting a compelling application takes skill and clarity. For support with proposal drafting, refinement, and review, contact grantsdatabase.org.
Don’t miss this opportunity to make your mark on Europe’s cultural future. Submit your application for the European Heritage Awards / Europa Nostra Awards before the deadline: 9 September 2025.
