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On 1 January 2025, discussions on the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028–2034 moved into a more structured preparatory phase within the EU institutions. These talks come at a challenging moment for Europe, marked by geopolitical instability, weaker economic growth, and ongoing concerns about the EU’s competitiveness. The outcome of the negotiations will have a significant influence on the EU’s economic priorities over the next decade.

Through its “Spending Smarter: An Alternative Vision for the Next EU Budget” initiative, EPICENTER aims to contribute a critical and evidence-based perspective to the debate on EU spending and revenue raising. The initiative looks at how the EU budget can be used more effectively to support innovation, productivity, and economic resilience, while also considering the consequences of current proposals for taxpayers and Member States. It is based on cost-benefit analysis of key spending programmes and an assessment of proposed revenue measures and their economic effects.

While there is broad consensus on the need to strengthen Europe’s competitiveness and resilience, there are differing views on how the EU spending should contribute to these goals. In particular, questions remain about the balance between new investment, spending efficiency, and fiscal discipline. Some observers warn that expanding EU expenditure without clear priorities or performance criteria risks putting additional strain on public finances without tackling underlying structural problems.

Others argue that EU-level spending can add value, especially when it supports cross-border cooperation and investment, provided it is well targeted and focused on areas where EU action clearly makes sense and complements market-based solutions.

This Euractiv Hybrid Conference will discuss how the next Multiannual Financial Framework can be shaped to deliver a more focused, efficient, and future-oriented EU budget for 2028–2034, while strengthening competitiveness and maintaining fiscal responsibility.

Key questions include:

• How can the next MFF be designed to ensure EU spending has a clear and measurable economic impact?
• What principles should guide smarter EU spending, such as efficiency, subsidiarity, and performance-based approaches?
• How should policymakers assess the impact of MFF spending and revenue proposals on taxpayers and Member States?
• What are the best ways to raise the necessary revenues for the next MFF?
• What changes are needed to reduce overlap between programmes and better target EU funds?
• How can public spending, market-driven solutions, and regulatory reform work together to support innovation, investment, and long-term growth?

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