The Bank of Italy announced the conclusion of the Innovation Data Challenge, a joint initiative with the Central Bank of Ireland aimed at encouraging academic research on how data can support innovation in the retail payments market. Over five months from January to May 2026, participants developed research proposals using real and synthetic data provided by the two institutions, and an evaluation panel selected 18 proposals from 35 submissions. About 380 students and researchers from seven Italian and Irish universities took part. The selected results were presented during two virtual showcases held on 7 May at the Bank of Italy's Milano Hub and on 22 May at the Central Bank of Ireland's headquarters in Dublin.
Bank of Italy2026-06-19
Bank of Italy and Central Bank of Ireland conclude payments innovation data challenge with 18 research proposals selected
The Bank of Italy said its joint Innovation Data Challenge with the Central Bank of Ireland has concluded, focusing on research into how data can promote innovation in retail payments. About 380 students and researchers from seven universities participated, and 18 proposals were selected from 35 submissions. The results were presented at virtual showcases in Milan and Dublin.