Applications now Open for NEB Prizes and NEB Boost for Small Municipalities 2026

This year’s NEB Prizes edition also marks an important step forward. Building on the success of previous editions, the NEB Prizes are taken to the next level, with revised categories, an expanded scope, a broader reach, and several new elements designed to further amplify their impact.   

The prizes are structured under the four revised thematic categories to reflect the future direction of the NEB:   

1. Enhancing Circularity, Sustainability, and Innovation
2. Strengthening Local Democracy and Inclusion
3. Arts, Culture, and Heritage as Drivers of Change
4. Enablers for New European Bauhaus Transformation  

As a special feature, the 2026 edition of the NEB Prizes contributes to the EU’s broader efforts to strengthen water resilience, in line with the EU Water Resilience Strategy, which aims to ensure water security for all by protecting ecosystems, balancing supply and demand and safeguarding access to safe drinking water and sanitation.   

In total, 13 winners and 14 runners-up will be recognised under the Prizes. Each winning project will be awarded up to €20,000, while additional 14 runners-up will get €5,000 each.  

NEB Boost for Small Municipalities 

The NEB Boost will award and financially support 20 projects taking place in rural settings or in communities with fewer than 20,000 residents.  

Eligible projects must focus on the built environment, including the construction, renovation, and adaptation of buildings and public spaces. These projects should prioritize circularity, carbon neutrality, cultural heritage preservation, affordable housing solutions, and the regeneration of rural or urban areas.  

The 20 winners of the NEB Boost will each receive a €30,000 prize, and a tailored communication package from the Commission to further amplify their achievements towards all communities across Europe.  

Additional information 

The finalists of the NEB Prizes 2026 will be announced during the third edition of the New European Bauhaus Festival on 9-13 June this year, while the winners of both competitions (Prizes and Boost) will be revealed during a dedicated NEB Award ceremony in autumn 2026.  

For all the details, including eligibility criteria, 2026 novelties, and how to apply, read below:

• NEB Prizes
• NEB Boost for Small Municipalities  

Deadline:  Applications for both competitions will close on 17 March 2026 at 19:00 CET.