36 PSPs selected for digital euro pilot
The European Central Bank has selected 36 payment service providers from across the euro area to participate in the digital euro pilot. The pilot exercise is crucial for testing technical functionality and operational processes, and is due to start in the second half of 2027.
Testing the digital euro's core
The European Central Bank (ECB) has selected 36 payment service providers (PSPs) from across the euro area to participate in the digital euro pilot.
This exercise is crucial for testing the digital euro's technical functionality, operational processes, and refining user experience.
The pilot aims to support the ongoing preparatory work for the potential issuance of a digital euro, and is due to start during the second half of 2027 for a period of 12 months.
Following a call for expression of interest in March 2026, the Eurosystem received more than 50 applications, reflecting strong market interest.
The selected participants, including banks and non-bank service providers, span a broad range of business models, sizes, and geographical coverage, ensuring a diverse and representative testing and learning environment.
Beta version, broad participation
The pilot will use a beta version of the digital euro, functionally and technically close to the draft legislation but without legal tender status.
Selected PSPs will serve as 'distributing PSPs' for Eurosystem staff, enabling beta digital euro account setup and payments.
Other 'acquiring PSPs' will facilitate beta digital euro payments for selected merchants; some providers will perform both roles.
The pilot will take place at the ECB and 19 national central banks across the euro area, involving their staff, e-commerce merchants, and businesses.
Staff will engage in various payment scenarios to refine the digital euro's design and user experience.
Updates will be regularly published on the ECB's dedicated digital euro pilot webpage.