Over half of EU funding is channelled through the 5 European structural and investment funds (ESIF). They are jointly managed by the European Commission and the EU countries. 

The purpose of all these funds is to invest in job creation and a sustainable and healthy European economy and environment.

The ESIF mainly focus on 5 areas:

- research and innovation
- digital technologies
- supporting the low-carbon economy
- sustainable management of natural resources
- small businesses