Investing in Europe’s digital future: Study projects long-term economic impact of the European Competitiveness Fund

July 9, 2026 at 03:11 PM UTC
European Commission Digital Strategy
Original: EN
Investing in Europe’s digital future: Study projects long-term economic impact of the European Competitiveness Fund

A recent study by the European Commission's Joint Research Centre and DG Connect projects significant economic returns from the proposed European Competitiveness Fund (ECF) Digital Leadership window. The research indicates a strong multiplier effect, with every euro invested potentially generating between €1.84 and €2.21 in EU Gross Domestic Product (GDP) over a decade, underscoring the strategic importance of targeted digital investments. The study utilized the JRC's Regional Holistic Model (RHOMOLO) to assess various investment scenarios, focusing on digital infrastructure and private sector support. Projections suggest that by 2037, the EU's annual GDP could increase by €13-16 billion, a gain of 0.07-0.085% of total economic output, with a substantial portion attributed to spillover effects from cross-border digital productivity impacts. These findings are expected to inform the final design of the ECF's Digital Leadership window, prioritizing investments that maximize economic benefits across all Member States. The emphasis on pan-European digital infrastructure highlights the potential for widespread economic gains beyond direct funding recipients, reinforcing the bloc's commitment to digital sovereignty and innovation.

Curated and translated by Europe Digital for our multilingual European audience.

Why this matters for European digital sovereignty

A study projects the European Competitiveness Fund's Digital Leadership window could boost EU GDP by €13-16 billion annually by 2037. This investment in digital infrastructure and private sector support emphasizes the bloc's commitment to digital sovereignty and pan-European innovation. The findings will inform ECF design to maximize economic benefits across member states.

Source Information

Publication: European Commission Digital Strategy
Published: July 9, 2026 at 03:11 PM UTC
All rights remain with the original publisher.

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