The European Commission presented its proposal for a unified regulatory framework for companies across the EU on Wednesday. Titled “EU Inc”., the Commission said the goal is to make it easier for businesses to start, operate and grow throughout the EU.
“EU Inc”. would be an optional, digital European company model. According to the proposal, companies could be incorporated within 48 hours for less than €100, without any minimum capital requirement. The aim is to boost EU competitiveness and reduce the fragmentation of the internal market.
The framework would let firms choose a harmonised set of rules instead of navigating 27 different national systems and more than 60 corporate forms. The Commission highlighted that this is especially helpful for innovative businesses that currently face a patchwork of regulations. In addition, the proposal includes fully digital company processes and simplified bankruptcy procedures, enabling founders to restart faster.
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that Europe has the potential to become “the best place for innovators”. “With EU Inc., we make it drastically easier to start and grow a company across Europe” she added. The Commission urged the European Parliament and the Council to reach an agreement on the proposal by the end of 2026, in order to strengthen EU competitiveness.
