Circular economy in process industries: Upcycling large volumes of secondary resources (Processes4Planet partnership) (RIA)

Last updated: 17.7.2025
Grant

This Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Action aims to revolutionize process industries by enabling the large-scale upcycling of secondary resources. The program seeks to prove the technical and economic feasibility of using waste and residues to produce high-quality materials, mirroring those from primary resources, thereby fostering a truly circular and sustainable industrial ecosystem. It stands out by directly supporting the twin green and digital transitions, emphasizing resource efficiency, CO2 reduction, and new business opportunities within Europe's industrial value chains.

Who is Funded by the Circular Economy Upcycling Program

This program targets a broad spectrum of entities involved in European process industries and beyond, with a clear focus on fostering circularity and sustainability across the value chain. Projects must be implemented within the European Union and Associated Countries, aligning with the EU's strategic objectives for a climate-neutral and digitally advanced economy.

What is Funded by the Circular Economy Upcycling Program

This program funds breakthrough innovations in the process industries aimed at upcycling secondary resources, focusing on achieving high-quality products while enhancing environmental impact. Projects are expected to advance technologies from early to mid-development stages.

Type and Scope of Circular Economy Funding

The program provides significant grant funding through a lump sum model, supporting comprehensive research and innovation actions. It outlines specific financial limits per project, encouraging substantial, collaborative initiatives.

Conditions and Requirements for Circular Economy Projects

Applicants must adhere to specific conditions for proposal submission, project implementation, and collaboration. Key requirements include demonstrating financial capacity, adhering to consortium rules for broad stakeholder involvement, and developing strategies for industrial exploitation and skills development.

Circular Economy Program Application Procedure

The application process for this program follows a single-stage submission procedure via the Funding & Tenders Portal. Evaluations are conducted based on predefined criteria, with results communicated to applicants within a specified timeframe.

The funding program operates under a robust legal framework established by the Horizon Europe Programme. It is guided by key European strategies and regulations focused on industrial transformation, circular economy, and digital advancements, ensuring alignment with broader EU policy goals.

Similar Programs

#Circular Economy#Process Industries#Upcycling Secondary Resources#Horizon Europe#Industrial Innovation#Green Transition#Resource Efficiency#Waste Reduction#CO2 Emissions Reduction#Digital Transformation#Industrial Symbiosis#Hubs for Circularity#Manufacturing#Energy Efficiency#Climate Neutrality#Research and Innovation Actions#Lump Sum Funding#TRL 4-6#Data Sharing#Sustainable Production

Funding Overview

Funding Status

Funding Status:

Closed

Maximum Amount

Maximum Amount:

12,000,000 €

Allocated Budget

Allocated Budget:

30,000,000 € (2023 annual budget for this topic)

Open Until

Open Until:

31.12.2027

Award Channel

Award Channel:

Framework Programme Call

Region

Region:

European Union and Associated Countries

Sectors

Sectors:

Construction and Building Materials, Paper and Packaging Industry, Energy Production and Supply, Water and Waste Management, Information and Communication Technology, Research and Development, Environmental and Climate Protection, Other

Beneficiaries

Beneficiaries:

Process Industry, Recycling Companies, SMEs

Application Type

Application Type:

Consortium Required

Funding Stages

Funding Stages:

Applied Research, Experimental Development

Funding Provider

Program Level:

European Union

Funding Body:

European Commission

Additional Partners:

Processes4Planet partnership, Made in Europe Partnership, Clean Steel Partnership, European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), EIT Manufacturing, EIT Digital, EIT Climate-KIC, European Investment Bank (EIB)

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