The European Commission's Horizon Europe program has launched a funding call titled "Embedding Upcycling Technologies into Viable Business" under the Processes4Planet Partnership. This initiative aims to enhance the European process industry's competitiveness by integrating upcycling technologies into sustainable business models. The call focuses on developing and implementing processes that transform end-of-life materials into valuable secondary raw materials, thereby reducing reliance on primary resources. Key objectives include doubling the rate of upcycled secondary raw materials, improving resource and energy efficiency across value chains, and fostering new business opportunities, particularly for SMEs in the recycling sector. Proposals should address the integration of upcycling technologies with logistics systems, develop novel separation and processing methods, and employ digital tools like Digital Product Passports for material tracking. Additionally, projects are expected to conduct techno-economic and life-cycle assessments to demonstrate economic viability and environmental benefits. Collaboration with existing Hubs4Circularity and involvement of stakeholders across the value chain—from designers to recyclers and public authorities—is encouraged. A comprehensive strategy for skills development, involving social partners and existing educational initiatives, should also be included. The call offers a total indicative budget of €34 million, with an expected EU contribution per project ranging between €8 million and €10 million. Projects are anticipated to achieve Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) of 5 to 7 by their conclusion. This funding opportunity represents a significant step toward advancing circular economy practices within Europe's process industries.

Opening: 22 May 2025

Deadline(s): 23 Sep 2025