ECB Seeks Merchants for Digital Euro Pilot

The European Central Bank (ECB) is looking for online and mobile commerce operators in the euro zone to test the digital euro payment system. The pilot aims to verify how the digital euro works, its convenience, and technical stability.

The ECB has expanded the scope of the pilot beyond 36 previously selected payment service providers to include merchants that receive payments. Operators will accept payments using a beta version of the digital euro, similar to the one proposed in an EU legislative proposal but without legal tender status.

The pilot is expected to run for 12 months from the second half of 2027 and participation is voluntary. The application deadline is October 27th.