ECB Launches Second Wave of Digital Euro Innovation Platform
The European Central Bank (ECB) has launched its second wave of the digital euro innovation platform, inviting merchants, payment service providers, fintechs, technical vendors, and public bodies to participate. The application deadline is November 9th, with the work scheduled to run through the first half of 2027.
The goal of this latest iteration is to build practical services on top of the digital euro's core infrastructure, exploring AI-driven payments and public sector uses. Participants will develop proofs of concept in four areas: electronic receipts integrated into payment apps, transactions involving multiple payers or payees, conditional payments consistent across providers, and value-added features offered by PSPs.
The experimentation workstream runs from January to June 2027, with each participant submitting a proof of concept and an outcome report. The ECB may publish key findings, providing insights into the development of the digital euro.