European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has launched a new platform aimed at mobilizing private sector finance for sustainable infrastructure and development projects.
Speaking Thursday at the Global Gateway Forum, a high-level summit of European Union members, Von der Leyen said the new portal would serve as a “single entry point” for companies to propose investments and collaborate with EU member states, development banks, and export credit agencies. The goal, she said, is to make it easier for businesses to engage early in shaping priorities and identifying strategic projects — not just to implement them once they’re approved.
The announcement is in line with Europe’s development rhetoric of prioritizing European countries in its development portfolio. The platform offers a place for countries to hear from companies about their needs.