The European Union could set up a European Participatory Fund (EPF) enabling citizens, businesses and institutions to invest voluntarily in the continent’s strategic priorities. This fund would complement the EU budget, mobilising private and societal funding to accelerate key projects. 1. Objectives of the European Participatory Fund (EPF) The idea is to create an alternative source of funding for: Supporting major innovation and green transition projects. Strengthen European sovereignty in strategic areas (energy, digital, defence, health, etc.). Involve citizens and businesses directly in financing the future of Europe. 2. Functioning of the EFF The EFF would function as a European crowdfunding platform, where each contributor could choose which projects to support. Sources of funding Citizens' contributions: any European could donate or invest in a specific project. Business investment: Companies could finance initiatives in exchange for tax benefits or CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) labels. Participation of States: each country could contribute to the fund to the extent of its means. Patronage and philanthropy: foundations and private institutions could also contribute.