Applications Open for the European Digital Connectivity Awards 2026

HAKOM invites Croatian electronic communications operators, local and regional authorities, companies and other organisations to submit their successful digital connectivity projects and showcase them at the European level.
 
ZAGREB, 7 July 2026 - The European Commission has opened applications for the European Digital Connectivity Awards 2026, which recognise projects that contribute to achieving the objectives of Europe's Digital Decade in the field of digital connectivity.
 
Participation offers applicants the opportunity to showcase their projects at the European level and benchmark them against other European initiatives advancing the development of digital infrastructure and connectivity.
 
Projects of all sizes that are at an advanced stage of implementation and have already delivered measurable results are eligible to apply. Eligible entries include projects in both urban and rural areas, initiatives from the public and private sectors, as well as local, regional, national, cross-border and international projects. The Awards recognise projects employing a wide range of digital connectivity technologies, including fibre networks, 5G, fixed wireless access, satellite connectivity, and terrestrial and subsea backbone and international communications networks.
 
Projects may be submitted in one of the following three categories: 

• Excellence and Innovation in Gigabit Infrastructure Deployment - for projects developing very high-capacity networks and implementing innovative technological solutions.
• Bridging the Digital Divide in Rural and Remote Areas - for projects delivering high-quality connectivity to underserved and hard-to-reach areas while generating tangible social and economic benefits.
• Cross-Border and International Connectivity - for projects developing communications networks between countries or connecting the European Union with other parts of the world.

Applications must be submitted in English by completing the application form in .xlsx format. The deadline for submission is 9 September 2026. The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony to be held in Brussels on 2 December 2026, and the winning projects will be showcased through the European Commission's communication channels.
 
Further information, the application form and the Guide for Applicants are available on the European Commission's official website.