European Commission launches first-ever European Capitals of Small Retail awards
Brussels, 30 June 2025 - The European Commission will officially launch the inaugural European Capitals of Small Retail (ECoSR) Awards at the European Parliament event on 3 July, transforming a powerful citizen initiative into a major European competition.
Initiated by a 2021 European Citizens' Initiative led by Alfons Barti Borrell, the ECoSR awards celebrate small, medium and large-sized cities that excel in supporting small retailers, revitalising city centres, supporting entrepreneurs, and fostering vibrant local economies. Much like the successful European Capitals for Culture or Innovation, this new annual prize puts a spotlight on cities that champion local businesses at the heart of their communities.
Small retailers remain the backbone of European towns and cities, serving 450 million consumers daily and contributing 11.5% of EU value added.
Beyond economic figures, they build community cohesion, preserve cultural identity, and bring life to urban neighbourhoods. Yet, they face growing competition from large chains and online platforms, making European support for digitalisation and green transitions vital.
How cities can compete
Starting 3 July 2025, and until 9 October 2025, cities from the EU and Single Market Programme countries can apply. Entries will be judged across four key areas:
- Sustainability: green practices, circular economy, climate resilience
- Entrepreneurship & Community Engagement: supporting local business, fostering innovation
- Digitalisation: technology adoption, digital skills, smart city integration
- Urban Vitality: attractive retail environments, cultural integration, tourism appeal.
Three winners will be announced at an award ceremony in Brussels in January 2026. Each winning city will receive EU-wide recognition, a professional promotional video, a high-profile launch event, and year-long EU media coverage and promotional material.
About ECoSR
The European Capitals of Small Retail is a European Union initiative launched as a Preparatory Action by the European Parliament, and implemented by the European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA), on behalf of the European Commission's Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs (DG GROW)
Contact
For more information, visit the official website.
For any interview requests or questions, please contact:
Lea Iskra
