The European Union is throwing billions of euros into the Horizon program, but where are the innovations? A study by the IFO Economic Research Institute and Bocconi University reveals the harsh truth: most of the funds end up in the hands of big, well-established companies churning out boring, short-term projects with zero real innovative potential. Instead of backing small and medium enterprises with brilliant ideas, the EU program has become a cash cow for the same old players who deliver no real growth. Is this just another bureaucratic circus or is it time for radical change? Clemens Fuest, president of the IFO Institute, and Daniel Gros from Bocconi University say it loud and clear: the EU must change the rules and funnel money to those who can truly push the boundaries of innovation. If not, millions of euros will keep being wasted on dead-end projects and privileged companies. So, what do you think? Is the EU Horizon program just another bureaucratic trap or does it have a shot at becoming a real innovation engine? Drop a comment, let’s hear what you think!
