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Taxonomic names are the foremost critical system for bringing together data across all life sciences. Facing the perpetually increasing diversity and volume of available data across science, it is evident that robust and open resolution and disambiguation name services (Global Names) can have impact that stretches far beyond the boundaries of taxonomy and systematics. A Global Names infrastructure can facilitate large-scale linking of diverse datasets from domain like biodiversity, medicine and ecosystem services.  However, delivering and sustaining efficient and long-lasting name e-infrastructures will require significant funding as well as long-lasting engagement by current and future stakeholders. In this talk we identify funding opportunities within the ongoing European funding mechanisms and especially Horizon 2020, and discuss optimal approaches in placing taxonomic name services at the core of the European agenda on required critical e-infrastructures. Furthermore, we propose a set of actions to be considered for securing long-term institutional commitment, improving coordination of efforts between international networks and organisations and framing the vital role of such services within the European and global context of scientific and societal challenges.