Since the 1960s, EU countries have pooled resources through the EU budget to tackle challenges no single country could solve alone. This cooperation funds projects that directly improve the lives of European citizens by creating growth and jobs, protecting the environment, reducing economic inequality across regions, and combatting terrorism and organised crime. Investing together enables world-class research that keeps Europe at the forefront of global innovation.
For Ireland, EU funding has been transformative. It helped us shift from a predominantly agricultural producer to a dynamic economy based on free trade, foreign investment and growth. It has benefited every part of society: farmers, students, researchers, charities, small businesses, and communities in every corner of the country.
The EU Budget: The Power of Together campaign showcases examples of what this funding delivers: better infrastructure, protected heritage, stronger local communities and a swifter transition towards a sustainable, competitive economy.
Explore the stories below to discover how EU investment is shaping Ireland's future.
EU funding is transforming the Port of Cork at Ringaskiddy into a modern hub for trade and renewable energy with the new container terminal and CORE1 project for offshore wind deployment.
Find out more about the EU budget for Ireland.