Since 2017, The Innovation in Politics Awards have celebrated political innovators across Europe who are addressing today’s challenges with forward-thinking solutions annually. Each year, outstanding political projects — whether small, localised efforts or large-scale initiatives — are recognised for delivering tangible impact and demonstrating that politics can be a force for positive change. The winners are selected by a citizens’ jury of more than 1,000 citizens from across Europe.
As a key event of the European Capital of Democracy (ECoD) Democracy Year, The Innovation in Politics Awards 2026 will take place in Cascais, Portugal, on 30 October 2026. This year’s categories are: Challenging Authoritarianism, Climate Protection, Democracy, Digital Innovation & Governance, Education, Local Citizen Engagement (ELDA), Public Health & Ageing Society, and Strengthening Europe.
The Awards event opens with an afternoon Exchange Conference — Politics, Coffee & Cake — a focused, interactive gathering bringing together this year’s finalists alongside local leaders, policymakers, and innovators from civil society and business across Europe. In the evening, the Awards Gala brings together more than 500 political innovators from across the continent for celebration, exchange, and the announcement of this year’s winners.