CONSIDERATIONS ON FINANCING BUSINESSES IN ROMANIA THROUGH EU FUNDING, OPPORTUNITIES AND THREATS

Financing business development in Romania through European Union (EU) funding has become a central pillar of national economic growth, competitiveness, and regional convergence. Over the past two decades, EU structural and investment funds have provided Romanian enterprises—particularly SMEs—with essential financial instruments supporting innovation, digitalization, infrastructure development, and internationalization. This article examines both the opportunities and the threats associated with EU-funded financing mechanisms in the Romanian business environment, combining descriptive insights with analytical evaluation. The study highlights the main EU programs accessible to Romanian companies, such as the European Regional Development Fund, the Cohesion Fund, and various funding lines under the Multiannual Financial Framework 2014–2020 and 2021–2027. Particular attention is given to the ways in which these programs stimulate investment and entrepreneurship while reducing regional disparities. Alongside these opportunities, significant challenges persist. Romanian businesses continue to face bureaucratic hurdles, complex application procedures, co-financing difficulties, and administrative capacity limitations. Frequent changes in national guidelines, delays in reimbursement, and inconsistent project monitoring also pose risks to financial stability and project sustainability. Through a combined descriptive and analytical approach, this article evaluates how these threats affect the absorption rate and effectiveness of EU funds. The conclusion outlines strategic recommendations for improving access to EU financing and strengthening Romania’s capacity to leverage these resources for long-term economic development.