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This paper examines if ideological influences can be observed when allocating funds within the European Union budget. First, it presents the legal basis of budget sources, followed by an examination of the major trends that affect the allocation of EU budgets.

Research shows that greater ideological distance between Commissioners and heads of government leads to reduced funding for specific regions. This suggests that the Commission doesn’t act impartially and favors politically aligned entities. Members of the European Parliament significantly influence funding allocation through formal and informal channels, often advocating for projects beneficial to their constituents and/or interest groups they align with. This creates a system of interest intermediation between advocacy groups and policy. Regional parties' stances on European integration are influenced by EU funding. Regions receiving more funds tend to have parties more supportive of integration.