[European Commission](https://commission.europa.eu/index_en)

February 2026 (Stage 1) | September 2026 (Stage 2)

Funding varies by project; multi-million euro budgets typical for collaborative Horizon Europe calls, 3–5 years duration.

Supports innovative projects advancing a sustainable, circular bio-based economy, especially targeting SMEs, under Horizon Europe.

--- ## Description This funding opportunity, part of the Horizon Europe programme, seeks innovative project proposals that enable the sustainable and circular transformation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Europe. The call aims to foster advancements in the circular bio-based economy, emphasizing the efficient and sustainable use of biological resources. Projects should address challenges related to circularity, resource efficiency, and the development of bio-based solutions applicable to diverse sectors. The grant is structured as a two-stage application process and is managed by the Directorate-General for Research and Innovation of the European Commission. --- ## Due Dates - **Stage 1 Proposal Submission Deadline (anticipated):** February 2026 - **Stage 2 Proposal Submission Deadline (anticipated):** September 2026 *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Award sizes are not fixed but typically range from several million euros per project, depending on the scope and partnership size. - Projects are usually funded for a duration of 3–5 years. - Funding covers eligible direct and indirect costs as defined by Horizon Europe rules. --- ## Eligibility - Open to consortia including at least three independent legal entities from three different EU Member States or associated countries. - SMEs are a central focus, but participation from research organizations, universities, industry, NGOs, and public authorities is encouraged. - Projects must address circularity and sustainability in the bio-based economy. - All applicants must comply with Horizon Europe participation rules. --- ## Application Process - **Two-stage submission:** - **Stage 1:** Submission of a short proposal outlining objectives, consortium, and impact. - **Stage 2:** If selected, invitation to submit a full proposal with detailed work plan and budget. - Applications must be submitted via the [EU Funding & Tenders Portal](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/topic-details/HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-CIRCBIO-01-two-stage?isExactMatch=true&status=31094501,31094502&order=DESC&pageNumber=12&pageSize=50&sortBy=startDate). - Proposals are evaluated on excellence, impact, and quality/efficiency of implementation. --- ## Additional Information - Projects are expected to contribute to EU Green Deal objectives, including climate neutrality and resource efficiency. - Strong emphasis on cross-sectoral collaboration and demonstration of impact for SMEs. - Guidance, templates, and FAQs are available on the EU Funding & Tenders Portal. --- ## External Links - [EU Funding & Tenders Portal – Call Details](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/topic-details/HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-CIRCBIO-01-two-stage?isExactMatch=true&status=31094501,31094502&order=DESC&pageNumber=12&pageSize=50&sortBy=startDate) - [European Commission – Horizon Europe](https://commission.europa.eu/research-and-innovation/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe_en) - [How to Participate – Horizon Europe](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/how-to-participate/how-to-participate/1) - [Guidance & Manuals](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/support/manuals) --- ## Contact Information | Department/Contact | Details | |----------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | General Enquiries | [European Commission Contact Page](https://commission.europa.eu/about-european-commission/contact_en) | | Phone | +32 2 299 11 11 | | Funding & Tenders Helpdesk | [EU Funding & Tenders Portal Helpdesk](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/support/helpdesks) |

Open Topic: Innovative solutions for the sustainable and circular transformation of SMEs

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