Civil society organisations, individuals and private companies can now enter not-for-profit projects for the European Economic and Social Committee’s 16th Civil Society Prize. This year’s edition will reward innovative initiatives that combat poverty, promote social and economic inclusion and help prevent people from falling into poverty. 

The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) plans to award up to three prizes: EUR 12 000 for the winner, EUR 10 000 for second place and EUR 8 000 for third place. Applications must be submitted by 10:00 CET on 6 November 2026. The award ceremony is expected to take place during EESC Civil Society Week in spring 2027. 

The prize is open to civil society organisations officially registered in the European Union and operating at local, regional, national or European level. Individuals and private companies or firms registered or operating in the EU may also apply, provided that their projects are strictly not-for-profit. Public authorities, governmental organisations and other public bodies are not eligible. 

To be eligible, projects must be carried out in the EU and must already have been implemented or still be ongoing on 6 November 2026. Initiatives whose implementation has not begun by that date will not be considered. The full eligibility requirements and an online application form are available on the EESC’s dedicated Civil Society Prize webpage. 

Projects may address a wide range of challenges, including access to adequate income and social protection, affordable essential services, education and lifelong learning, and quality employment. Initiatives may also tackle in-work and energy poverty, homelessness, financial exclusion and the rising cost of living. Other eligible projects could get people experiencing poverty involved in designing solutions or respond to the specific needs of groups particularly at risk. 

The EESC has welcomed the EU’s first Anti-Poverty Strategy and called for ambitious action in areas such as employment, education, social protection, health, housing, energy and digital inclusion. It also stresses that people directly affected by poverty must be involved in designing, implementing and evaluating policies intended to support them. 

Through its 16th Civil Society Prize, the EESC aims to highlight initiatives that uphold the fundamental right to a life in dignity, demonstrate solidarity and empower people to build a better future.(lm)