startupcafe.ro/fondurile-europene-pentru-cooperati

Investments in Romanian agricultural cooperatives and rural infrastructure may lose European funding from 2028-2034 due to competition with urban development and security priorities. Civitas Foundation and CRPE warn that the proposed 10% minimum funding threshold for rural development is inadequate and call for stronger financial guarantees. The new EU budget framework will integrate funding into national and regional partnership plans, impacting rural investment. Concerns include the lack of a distinct budget for rural development and potential favoritism towards projects with easier economic returns. The organizations emphasize the need for accessible funding for all agricultural cooperatives, not just officially recognized ones, to support small farmers and enhance competitiveness. They advocate for prioritizing investments in agricultural education and youth engagement in farming.