European Commission publishes 2026 work program

08.12.2025

The European Commission has presented its 2026 work program under the motto "Europe's Independence Moment". It forms the strategic framework for the final implementation years of the current legislative period. A total of 38 new initiatives, 20 evaluations of existing EU laws and the withdrawal of 25 proposals are planned.

The focus is on six priorities: sustainable prosperity, security and defense, social resilience and innovation, quality of life, democracy and the rule of law as well as Europe's global role. For Bavarian SMEs and start-ups, this results in several important points of contact:

• Digital sovereignty and data economy: new initiatives promote secure AI systems, the development of European data spaces and the strengthening of digital infrastructures in key industries.
• Competitiveness and cutting red tape: The Commission is planning measures to reduce reporting obligations for SMEs by 25% and to simplify EU funding instruments.
• Green transformation and circular economy: New programs are to stimulate innovation in sustainable production, recycling technologies and energy efficiency.
• Research and innovation: A review of Horizon Europe's strategic planning is intended to strengthen technological sovereignty and industrial competitiveness.

Further information: Work program of the European Commission 2026

Contact us

If you would like to find out what impact these political objectives will have on your innovation and funding strategy, or if you need support in identifying relevant calls for proposals and project ideas, BayFOR's SME advisory service will be happy to help.