For the European Public Sector Award (EPSA) 2025-26 we received 134 eligible project submissions from 30 countries. Projects come from all levels of government, highlighting active investment in public sector innovation across Europe and beyond.
The edition covered three award categories (Innovating Government, Governance and Policies; Investing in Infrastructure, Mobility and Energy; Delivering User-Centric Services at Subnational Level) and Special Recognition updates. Applicants submitted 108 new projects to the main award categories and 26 updated projects from earlier EPSA editions.
Award Categories and Submissions
The 134 projects are distributed as follows:
Innovating Government, Governance and Policies: 51
Investing in Infrastructure, Mobility and Energy: 21
- Delivering User-Centric Services at Subnational Level: 36
- Special Recognition: 26
Levels of Government
All levels of government submitted applications with the following distribution:
- National: 76
- Regional: 26
- Local: 32
National-level entities account for the largest share of applications (57%), followed by local (26%) and regional (19%) authorities.
Applications per Country
With projects coming from 30 different countries, the EPSA 2025-26 edition demonstrates a widespread commitment to public sector reform and innovation.
The countries with the highest number of applications are:
- Spain: 26
- Austria: 16
- Italy: 11
- Poland: 10
Spain and Austria once again lead participation, in line with previous editions. Italy’s contribution remains strong and stable, while Poland has increased its number of submissions compared to earlier rounds. Portugal, Latvia and Luxembourg also show notably high levels of participation relative to their size.
EU Funding
Of the 134 projects, 56 are supported by EU funding, with several benefiting from more than one programme.
Distribution of EU Funding Programmes
Start of the Evaluation Phase
The spotlight now turns to a panel of independent experts from the public and private sectors, who will assess all eligible applications. Following this evaluation phase:
- Three outstanding projects in each award category will be selected as nominees
- Additional high-quality initiatives will receive Good Practice Certificates
- Special Recognitions will be awarded to the projects that demonstrate continuous commitment to the improvement of public services
The ultimate recognition will be awarded at the EPSA Award Ceremony, scheduled to take place in Maastricht next autumn.
The journey toward excellence in public administration is well underway, and we look forward to celebrating the remarkable achievements of all participating organisations from across Europe and beyond.
EPSA 2025-26 is financed by the European Commission, Austria, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and supported by the Province of Limburg and the City of Maastricht.
