ECB launches design contest for new euro banknotes

The European Central Bank (ECB) has launched an design contest to shape the look of future euro banknotes, marking a significant refresh two decades after their initial release.

With themes centred on ‘European culture’ and ‘Rivers and birds’, the competition aims to develop a new generation of banknotes that are not only secure and functional, but also sustainable and reflective of the European identity. The initiative underscores the ECB’s commitment to ensuring euro banknotes remain a symbol of unity while adapting to evolving design expectations and environmental concerns.

The contest is open to individuals and legal entities based in the European Union, and will unfold in two distinct phases. The first involves a call for applications, where prospective participants are assessed based on education, work experience, and creative portfolio. Up to 20 applicants per theme will be invited to the second phase, during which they will submit detailed designs for all six denominations: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, and €200.

To ensure impartiality, the submitted designs will undergo a pseudonymised review by a panel of independent experts in visual arts and communication. Following this, the ECB plans to conduct a public survey before selecting the final winning design through its Governing Council.

The deadline to apply is 18th August 2025 at 12:00 (CET), with applications to be submitted electronically via the ECB’s design portal.