ECB Young Economist Prize 2026

11 February 2026

ECB Forum on central banking

The European Central Bank (ECB) has announced a call for papers for its 2026 Young Economist Prize. This annual research competition is open to students currently enrolled in a PhD programme in economics or finance and offers them the opportunity to share innovative perspectives on today's pressing challenges.

The selected applicants will be invited to present their research to leading policymakers and academics at the ECB Forum on Central Banking, which will take place in Sintra, Portugal, from 29 June to 1 July 2026. The theme of the 2026 ECB Forum is 'Shaping Europe's future: innovation, growth and stability'.

The winner of the Young Economist Prize will be awarded €10,000.

The deadline for applications is 2 March 2026.