Cohesion policy, climate and investment tools at work for affordable housing
06-11-2025The Affordable Housing Initiative (AHI) continues to equip public, cooperative, and social housing providers across Europe with practical tools and knowledge to make affordable and sustainable housing projects a reality.
As part of its mission, the AHI hosted the first in a series of three financial webinars, focusing on the latest EU policy and funding developments that can unlock investment for affordable housing. The session featured contributions from Housing Europe, the European Commission’s DG Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion, and the Commission’s Task Force on Housing.
Housing Europe’s Johanne Philippe presented the recent amendments to Cohesion Policy Regulations, which formally integrate affordable and social housing into the EU’s strategic priorities. These changes allow Member States to reallocate cohesion funds until the end of 2025 to support both renovation and new construction, improving access to decent homes across Europe.
Tijn Croon from the European Commission also introduced the Social Climate Fund, a landmark instrument that will mobilise around €86 billion between 2026 and 2032. Designed to mitigate the social impacts of the green transition, the Fund will help vulnerable households and micro-enterprises finance energy-efficient renovations, clean heating and cooling systems, and sustainable mobility solutions.
Finally, participants learnt more about the forthcoming European Affordable Housing Plan by Edit Lakatos, a comprehensive framework to coordinate financing, policy reform, and technical assistance at EU level. Supported by a Pan-European Investment Platform and national hubs, it will bring together public authorities, investors, and housing providers to boost long-term investment in affordable housing.
Together, these developments mark a decisive step forward in Europe’s efforts to ensure access to decent, sustainable, and affordable homes for all.
Download the slides.
Amendment of the Cohesion Policy – Johanne Philippe
Social Climate Fund – Tijn Croon
Towards an EU Affordable Housing Plan – Edit Lakatos
Watch the recording below.