Mihai Tudose, a Romanian MEP from the Socialists and Democrats group, has asked the European Commission whether it plans to channel funding for European university alliance projects through the future European Competitiveness Fund and the Horizon Europe research programme. In a written parliamentary question dated 8 June 2026, Tudose argued that beyond academic cooperation and mobility, these alliances have a major socio-economic impact on research, innovation and competitiveness, and therefore require solid, predictable, long-term support.
The question comes after the Council decided that university alliances will continue to receive European support through the Erasmus+ programme under the next multiannual financial framework (2028-2034). Tudose welcomed that decision but stressed that the economic dimension of inter-university projects should also be backed by dedicated funding instruments aimed at boosting European businesses. The MEP is seeking clarity on whether the Commission envisages including such projects in the upcoming European Competitiveness Fund, a proposed EU vehicle to strengthen strategic industries and innovation.
Tudose's question contains no specific numerical targets or deadlines but calls for a clear policy orientation linking higher education cooperation to EU competitiveness goals. The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks; its answer will signal whether it views university alliances as eligible for competitiveness-related funding beyond Erasmus+.
European university alliances would benefit from additional funding streams, strengthening their research and innovation capacity. EU businesses could gain from closer ties with academia, potentially boosting competitiveness. National governments may face pressure to co-fund or align priorities. The Commission must weigh budget constraints and the risk of duplicating existing Erasmus+ support.