Technologies for innovative processing of raw materials (IA)
EU grant funds pilot-scale projects developing innovative, efficient, and sustainable technologies for recovering raw materials from low-grade ores and mining waste, emphasizing market uptake and environmental performance.
Funder: European Commission
Due Dates: February 2, 2027
Funding Amounts: €10–12.5 million per project | 4 projects expected | Total call budget: €49 million | Project duration typically 36–48 months
Summary: Supports EU-based pilot-scale projects to develop innovative, efficient, and sustainable technologies for processing raw materials from low-grade ores and mining waste, with strong emphasis on market uptake and environmental performance.
Key Information: Legal entities established in China are not eligible; strict eligibility for international partners applies.
Description
This grant funds pilot-scale demonstration projects that integrate advanced processing and refining technologies to improve the recovery of valuable raw materials—especially critical raw materials—from low-grade or complex ores and extractive wastes. Targeted outcomes include increased recovery rates, enhanced efficiency of material, water, and energy use, reduced waste and pollution, and minimized environmental impacts across the lifecycle. Projects must be industry-driven, support market uptake, and foster circular business models, with attention to standardization and international cooperation (excluding China).
The grant is part of Horizon Europe’s Cluster 4, focusing on technological leadership for Europe’s strategic autonomy in raw materials, chemicals, and innovative materials, supporting the EU’s green and digital transitions.
