Since 2008, REGIOSTARS has been organised annually by DG REGIO and has become a label of excellence for EU-funded projects. The awards celebrate projects that have tackled common challenges and delivered tangible results for territories and citizens.
Over the years, seven NWE projects have been REGIOSTARS finalists, and three have won: Bio Base NWE, CAN, and SHICC. Most recently, Care-Peat reached the finals in 2025:
“Our project Care-Peat was selected as a finalist for the REGIOSTARS Awards. This is a prestigious recognition from the European Commission that rewards excellence in projects co-financed by the EU. We were extremely honoured, especially as we're the first project in the field of nature restoration and 'nature-based solutions' to reach the final. We see this as a powerful signal of confidence in this approach.”
Katrin Wijns - Natuurpunt, Lead partner of the Care-Peat project
Who can apply
Projects can apply under one of five categories:
- A Competitive and Smart Europe
- A Green Europe
- A Connected Europe
- A Social and Inclusive Europe
- A Europe Closer to Citizens
To be eligible, the project must be closed and fully implemented and have demonstrated concrete results and impact by contributing to reducing regional disparities and improving citizens' quality of life.
How to apply
Each year, the NWE Programme can support up to five project applications. This is your opportunity to share your success story, connect with innovative projects and stakeholders and extend your legacy!
Complete the form of interest by 8 April 2026 at noon (CET). The Joint Secretariat will reach out by mid-April if your project is selected for endorsement.
If you have questions about the pre-selection and application process, get in touch at communication@nweurope.eu.
Timeline
- 8 April: Deadline to complete the expression of interest form
- Mid-April: The NWE Joint Secretariat will reach out if your project is selected for endorsement
- 22 May: Deadline to finalise your application with support from the Joint Secretariat
- 14 July: Announcements of the finalists
- 3 September: Launch of the public vote
- Mid-September: Online training for finalists
- Mid-October: Finalists’ pitch and REGIOSTARS ceremony during the European Week of Regions and Cities
Get a taste of the competition with the 2025 Award ceremony video: