The world’s richest man has secured millions in EU subsidies and funding to grow his business empire—but how much, and to what end?
Elon Musk became the world’s richest man thanks to his groundbreaking companies.
Now, beyond being an entrepreneur, he appears to be stepping into politics.
First, he threw his support behind Donald Trump’s bid for the White House. Now, following Trump’s victory in the U.S. presidential election and his appointment as President of the United States, Musk has been named head of the newly established Department for Government Efficiency—also known as Doge.
His mandate? To cut taxes and reduce bureaucracy, streamlining government operations for greater efficiency.
Musk is no stranger to controversy; his statements and actions frequently spark debate. Through his social media platform, X, he often comments on global affairs, including developments in Europe, sometimes taking direct aim at the European Union’s policies.
His outspoken nature has raised concerns, prompting some European politicians to question just how much financial support his companies have received from the EU over the years.
EU Lawmaker Questions Musk’s Subsidies
Daniel Freund, a German MEP, has formally requested transparency regarding EU funds allocated to Musk’s enterprises.
"The goal of the Trumpists, including Musk, is clearly to weaken, if not dismantle, the EU. We must carefully scrutinize the funding we provide to them," Freund stated in a recent parliamentary session.
Freund argues that European taxpayers’ money should not be funneled to individuals who may seek to undermine the EU. He has, therefore, requested a full report detailing all EU funding awarded over the past five years to companies owned or controlled by Musk.
Over €150 Million for Tesla in Europe
While a full breakdown of EU subsidies to Musk’s businesses is still pending, what is known is that in 2023, the EU granted nearly €150 million to Tesla for expanding its electric vehicle charging network across Europe.
Tesla, Musk’s flagship electric vehicle company, operates a major manufacturing plant in Berlin.
However, it remains unclear whether European funds were used to support the opening of this factory.
Another key company in Musk’s portfolio is Starlink, which provides high-speed satellite internet, particularly in remote and rural areas where traditional broadband infrastructure is limited.
Starlink has also played a crucial role in the war in Ukraine, supplying connectivity solutions to the Ukrainian military in conflict zones.
The question remains: has Musk’s satellite venture received, or is it currently benefiting from, European subsidies?
Musk’s Track Record with Public Funding
Musk has a long history of securing public funds to fuel the growth of his companies. An investigation by The Washington Post revealed that his business empire has been heavily supported by government aid.
According to the report, Musk’s companies have received at least $38 billion through a mix of government contracts, subsidized loans, grants, and tax credits.
This financial backing has been instrumental in the expansion of companies such as Tesla, SpaceX, and other Musk-led ventures.
As scrutiny over EU funding intensifies, policymakers may soon have to decide whether continued financial support for Musk’s enterprises aligns with Europe’s strategic interests.
Original article published on Money.it Italy 2025-03-05 20:01:00. Original title: Quanti milioni di euro dà l’Unione Europea a Elon Musk?
