Connecting Europe is a project of the European Policy Centre (EPC) funded by Stiftung Mercator. The project connects civil society organisations with EU decision-makers and strengthens transnational EU policy debates by fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange and policy dialogue across Europe. 

Established in 2017, Connecting Europe has developed a network of more than 65 organisations, bringing together research institutes, NGOs, think tanks, fellowship programmes and collaborative initiatives from across Europe. The project creates opportunities for civil society organisations to engage with EU institutions, policymakers and experts on the most pressing European policy challenges. 

Community building

Connecting Europe organises regular Network and Community events to bring together CSO’s operating in the same field. They are an opportunity to explore synergies, strategise on challenges and increase impact. We also support the organisation of study trips and other exchange activities to Brussels.

Supporting reasearch

Organisations can use the EPC as platform to publish policy briefs or commentaries. We also publish our own analysis, consolidating knowledge and contributing to transnational policy debates. Connecting Europe also contributes to research processes through roundtables and policy dialogues to gather feedback for research and exchange with policymakers. 

Providing Advice

We support partners by providing advice in 1-on-1 meetings on EU issues, e.g. on policy developments in Brussels, research in policy fields or contacts to EU decision-makers and other stakeholders. 

Outreach and building bridges

Connecting Europe provides a platform for dissemination via our regular newsletters, social media channels and events. As connector and bridge builder we enable partners to experience EU policy processes, connect with policymakers, and provide a platform for a wider transnational exchange.