Brief

H/Advisors Cicero was tasked with leading a defensive and technical lobbying campaign on new EU crowdfunding regulation.

Strategy and execution

Working closely with Funding Circle’s legal and communications departments, H/Advisors Cicero designed a public affairs campaign strategy to help ensure the European Crowdfunding Regulation (ECSPR) is workable for lending platforms. In implementing the strategy, H/Advisors Cicero led on drafting messaging, presentations, position papers, suggested amendments and technical explainers. 

We provided intensive, targeted end-to-end policy-maker engagement and profile-raising strategies, including regular meeting programmes with policymakers across Brussels, London, Dublin, the Hague and Berlin. H/Advisors Cicero provided full support and drafts briefings for each meeting.  

We also provided proactive media engagement support and secured opportunities for Funding Circle representatives to speak at key European Parliament hearings.

Result

The campaign secured key amendments to the European Parliament’s position on the Crowdfunding Regulation, whereby the distinctive lending platform business model is recognised.  

Engaging at an early stage with senior officials in the Commission cabinets and the Directorate-General for Financial Stability, Financial Services and Capital Markets Union (DG FISMA), national ministries and influential MEPs has positioned Funding Circle as a reliable European stakeholder, recognised as a key player from which EU officials seek technical guidance.