Since the global economic and financial crisis, the EU has been suffering from low levels of investment. Collective and coordinated efforts at European level are needed to reverse this downward trend and put Europe on the path of economic recovery. Adequate levels of resources are available and need to be mobilised across the EU in support of investment. There is no single, simple answer, no growth button that can be pushed, and no one-size-fits-all solution.
The Investment Plan for Europe, the so-called Juncker Plan, has three objectives: to remove obstacles to investment; to provide visibility and technical assistance to investment projects; and to make smarter use of financial resources. As such, the plan is made up of three pillars:
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First, the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI), which provides an EU guarantee to mobilise private investment. The Commission works together with its strategic partner, the European Investment Bank (EIB) Group.
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Second, the European Investment Advisory Hub and the European Investment Project Portal which provide technical assistance and greater visibility of investment opportunities, thereby helping proposed investment projects become a reality. The Hub is a joint venture with the EIB Group.
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Third, improving the business environment by removing regulatory barriers to investment both nationally and at EU level.