Applications for the largest EU event dedicated to cohesion policy are now open! The European Week of Regions and Cities will celebrate its 24th edition from 12 to 14 October 2026 in Brussels, under the motto “Strong regions, strong Europe”. The event will address emerging political priorities and discuss how cohesion policy can evolve, while emphasising its long-term positive impact and its place-based approach.
The 2026 edition offers a variety of session formats to foster engagement, collaboration and knowledge sharing:
- Political/Policy Debates (90 minutes): a chance for political leaders, policymakers, local authorities, elected politicians and MEPs to exchange ideas, gather feedback and develop strategies on Cohesion Policy.
- Workshops (90 minutes): active sessions designed to share experiences and good practices while fostering collaboration.
- EURegionsTalk (30 minutes): short, engaging sessions designed to inspire discussion and showcase innovative ideas, TED-style Talks.
- Exhibition stands and tastings: stands showcasing EU projects, funding and expert knowledge, and European regional gastronomy tastings.
Participation as a partner offers the opportunity to:
– Present projects and expertise to a European audience;
– Engage with EU institutions and regional stakeholders;
– Contribute to policy discussions on cohesion and regional development;
– Strengthen networks and cooperation across Europe.
Applicants should be from/or have an established residence in an EU Member State or a country contributing to/participating in an EU programme. They must fall under one of the following categories to be eligible to become an official partner of the EURegionsWeek:
- Local and regional authorities and associations thereof
- Managing Authorities of EU funds
- EU institutions and institutional partners
- European Groupings of Territorial Cooperation (EGTCs)
- Associations and institutions contributing to/participating in an EU programme
- Public-private partnerships
Due to space limitations this year, only applications submitted by at least two partners will be considered. Proposals must be submitted via the official application form accessible via the event website. The deadline for submitting session proposal for the official programme is 26 April.
In addition to the sessions in Brussels on 12-15 October, the “Close to you” programme will be organised by partners all over Europe from 12 October to 20 December 2026. The deadline for submitting EURegionsWeek Close to you session proposals is 17 July 2026.
The official kick-off meeting on 25 March 2025 marked the start of preparations for this year’s edition, offering an overview of the event’s structure and session formats. A video recording is available online.
More information: