Alongside the new edition of the NEB Prizes, the European Commission has launched the second edition of the NEB Boost for Small Municipalities, a call for proposals that aims to endorse and financially support sustainable, beautiful, and inclusive initiatives launched by towns with fewer than 20,000 inhabitants.
In 2025, this call supported two Spanish projects in Lorquí, Murcia, and in the Guipúzcoa town of Beizama, which developed, respectively, initiatives for the regeneration and use of disused architectural heritage, and repopulation solutions through eco-friendly housing.
On this occasion, and due to the warm reception of this proposal based on the principles of the New Bauhaus, the EC will once again reward 20 projects from across Europe, not only to give them a financial boost, but also to give them visibility and international recognition.
Each winner will receive €30,000, as well as personalized communication advice to promote their municipality and innovative spirit. Applications can be submitted until March 29 at 7 p.m. CET. All proposals must focus on the built environment, whether urban or rural, including the construction, renovation, and adaptation of buildings and public spaces.
They must also prioritize NEB principles such as achieving circularity and carbon neutrality, safeguarding cultural heritage, promoting green and affordable housing solutions, and regenerating underutilized areas and spaces. The winning municipalities of NEB Boost 2026 will be announced at an awards ceremony scheduled for the fall.
Both the specific requirements of the call for proposals and the application form are available on the European Commission’s website. In addition, several guides have been published for participants to help resolve any questions that may arise. If you have any unresolved questions, you can also contact the EC at this link.
