3 September 2026 · Falah Mousa
As part of its new economic stimulus package, the EU has plans to spend hundreds of billions of euro’s on Research & Technology as well as on European Industry. This includes the proposed "European Competitiveness Fund" which by itself would amount to approximately €234 billion. When combined with the funds for Horizon Europe, the total comes out to just under €409 billion.
BusinessEurope, which represents all the major industries in Europe (the largest business lobby), now is seeking representation from companies at the table that will determine priorities for the use of these funds. Trade Unions, small businesses and environmental organizations also believe they deserve a seat at this table. Governments, however, are concerned that Brussels will have too much authority over the allocation of funds. Additionally, Eastern European Countries are worried that large corporations located in Western Europe will receive most of the benefit.
All three parties possess valuable information regarding investment opportunities, available technologies as well as the challenges facing European Businesses. Therefore, it makes logical sense to seek input from them during discussions related to priorities. However, their role should be strictly limited; specifically if those companies later apply for funding from the same public resources.
This Board will provide recommendations for priority projects as opposed to selecting specific grant applications. While there is a distinction between the two, this still amounts to hundreds of billions of euro’s in public money. Therefore, clear definitions and limitations regarding who can influence decisions made at this level will be necessary.
#EU #EUBudget #EuropeanIndustry #Competitiveness #PublicMoney #Europe
Falah Mousa 