European Data Space Awards Attract 53 Applications from Across Europe
This year's European Data Space Awards, an initiative organised by the Data Spaces Support Centre in collaboration with the European Commission, attracted 53 applications from initiatives representing 9 EU Member States and a broad range of economic and societal sectors. The high response highlights the diversity of Europe's data space ecosystem, from emerging projects exploring innovative approaches to established initiatives demonstrating tangible business value and financial sustainability.
Applications were submitted across the Awards' two categories:
Excellence in End-user Engagement and Financial Sustainability: 12 applications showcasing approaches that create end-user value and build sustainable data-sharing ecosystems.
Most Innovative Emerging Data Space: 41 applications highlighting innovative ideas, use cases, technologies and collaboration models.
The applications cover sectors including health, mobility, agriculture, manufacturing, energy, tourism, the Green Deal and cultural heritage. Several initiatives also address cross-sectoral challenges, illustrating the potential of trusted data sharing to connect traditionally separate ecosystems.
We thank all applicants for their participation in this second edition of the European Data Space Awards. Applications will now undergo eligibility screening, followed by independent evaluation. The shortlisted nominees (3 per award category) are expected to be announced on 21 December 2026.
We look forward to celebrating the initiatives helping turn the vision of European data spaces into tangible value.