ECB calls for merchants to apply for digital euro pilot

Preparation of the digital euro test phase: starting in the second half of 2027 and running for 12 months; affects e-commerce and payments infrastructure. Application deadline 27 Oct 2026, participation voluntary and unremunerated.

On 15 Sept 2026 the Eurosystem published a call for expression of interest inviting e-commerce and m-commerce merchants established in the EU, with geographical reach across at least two pilot locations, to take part in the digital euro pilot and support the remote P2B use case. Applications are due by 17:00 CET on 27 Oct 2026; an information session was scheduled for 6 Oct 2026. The pilot is to start in the second half of 2027 and run for 12 months; participation is not remunerated (ECB, 15 Sept 2026).