In 2026, Eurhonet is launching its Financing Topic Group. The group will focus on sharing best practice and exploring approaches to accessing finance, understanding financial frameworks, and supporting strategic decision-making.

To coordinate its activities, Anas Erraji, Finance Director at Habitat08, has recently been appointed Topic Group Leader. To get to know him better, we spoke with him about his professional journey, his views on challenges and opportunities in housing from a financing perspective, and his vision for the group’s work.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your professional background?

“I started my career in the automotive industry where I worked as program controller(R&D) and later as plant controller. I transitioned to the social housing, where I held the position of controlling manager and subsequently became Finance Director.”

What inspired you to work in the housing sector, and particularly with issues related to ageing?

“I was motivated by the opportunity to contribute tto a sector that plays a critical role in social cohesion and quality of life. “

What motivated you to take on the role of Ageing Topic Group Leader at Eurhonet?

“The role provides an opportunity to facilitate knowledge sharing, foster cooperation and most importantly help identify collective solutions such as joint initiatives, access to European funding and innovative financing mechanisms.”

From your perspective, what are the main challenges and opportunities in housing for an ageing population? 

“The main challenges are the rising construction and renovation costs, increasing investment needs and complex financing conditions. These challenges create opportunities. There is potential in strengthening cooperation between housing providers, pooling expertise, and better leveraging EU-level instruments and funding programs. Innovation in financing structures and partnerships will be key in the coming years.”

What priorities and goals do you believe are vital for the Ageing Topic Group in the coming year? 

“A key priority is to provide a structured platform for members to compare national financing systems and existing financial instruments. We should also focus on identifying concrete barriers to investment and discussing practical, innovative solutions.
Another important objective is to analyse the impact of EU-level initiatives on access to finance, ensuring that members are well informed and able to position themselves effectively to benefit from these opportunities.”

How do you hope Eurhonet members will benefit from participating in this group’s activities? 

“I hope members will gain both strategic insights and practical tools.”

Finally, what would you like Eurhonet members to know about you as you begin this new role? 

“I’m very honoured and excited to lead the Financing Topic Group and look forward to working closely with all participants.”

We look forward to following Anas’s leadership as the Financing Topic Group continues to grow and evolve.