The 10th edition of the European Public Sector Award (EPSA) 2025-26 takes place amid growing economic, social and geopolitical challenges, highlighting the importance of strong public administration and effective governance in sustaining inclusive economic growth and strengthening Europe’s competitiveness. Under the overarching theme ‘Driving Competitiveness through Reforms and Investments’, the award focuses on innovative projects demonstrating how reforms and investments can improve public services, strengthen institutional resilience and support sustainable growth.
EPSA 2025-26 invited public administrations across Europe to submit projects under three Award Categories: ‘Innovating Government, Governance and Policies’, ‘Investing in Infrastructure, Mobility and Energy’ and ‘Delivering User-Centric Services at Subnational Level’. Data-driven public administration constitutes a common thematic focus across all categories, reflecting the importance of evidence-informed policymaking, digital innovation and efficient service delivery.
The 10th edition received 134 applications from 30 countries and international organisations, including 108 new projects and 26 updates submitted under the Special Recognition scheme, introduced to highlight long-term impact and the continued development of previously submitted initiatives. Through the identification and recognition of successful reforms, EPSA continues to promote mutual learning, knowledge dissemination and capacity-building, enabling public administrations to exchange good practices and adapt innovative solutions to their own contexts.
With the support of its official partners, including the European Commission, Austria, Luxembourg and the Netherlands, as well as the City of Maastricht and the Province of Limburg, EPSA 2025-26 continues to provide a European platform for showcasing excellence in public sector innovation and supporting the design and implementation of effective reforms.
Learn more about all EPSA 2025–26 projects here.
Christoph Klika
EU policy-making