The European Circular Innovation Venture (ECIV) has launched its First Open Call, inviting a wide range of stakeholders to collaborate on ambitious interregional projects. With a budget exceeding €9 million, this initiative is designed to accelerate Europe’s transition toward a circular economy. The call emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and collaboration across borders, aiming to reduce reliance on virgin raw materials, transform waste into valuable resources, and encourage new business models and behavioral change.
Objectives of the Call
The ECIV Open Call seeks to:
- Strengthen European value loops by promoting circularity.
- Support large-scale innovation initiatives at Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 6–8.
- Encourage partnerships between companies, research organizations, public authorities, and civil society.
- Foster behavioral change and business model innovation.
- Accelerate Europe’s resilience and sustainability through impactful projects.
Eligible Territories
Projects funded under this call must involve partners from one or more of the following regions:
- Comunidad Foral de Navarra (Spain)
- Noord Nederland (Netherlands) – including Groningen, Friesland, and Drenthe
- Norra Mellansverige (Sweden) – covering Värmland, Dalarna, and Gävleborg
- Normandie (France)
- Scotland (United Kingdom)
Who Can Apply?
Applications are open to a diverse set of stakeholders, including:
- Private companies (startups, SMEs, and larger enterprises).
- Research organizations and universities.
- Public authorities at local, regional, or national levels.
- Civil society organizations and NGOs.
Funding Details
- Total Budget: Over €9 million.
- Co-Funding Rates: Specific rates apply depending on the type of organization and project scope.
- Eligible Costs: Personnel, equipment, subcontracting, travel, and other project-related expenses.
- Obligations After Funding: Beneficiaries must report on progress, sustainability outcomes, and dissemination of results.
ECIV Missions
The Open Call aligns with ECIV’s broader missions, which include:
- Reducing dependence on virgin raw materials.
- Turning waste into new resources.
- Encouraging sustainable consumption and production patterns.
- Supporting innovative business models that prioritize circularity.
Application Process
Applicants must follow a structured process:
- Register on the ECIV matchmaking platform.
- Form partnerships with stakeholders across eligible regions.
- Prepare proposals that clearly outline project objectives, expected impact, and sustainability measures.
- Submit applications before the deadline.
- Call Deadline: March 16, 2026, at 12:00 (GMT +0).
Evaluation Criteria
Proposals will be assessed based on:
- Innovation potential and alignment with TRL 6–8.
- Impact on circular economy goals and European value loops.
- Quality of partnerships and interregional collaboration.
- Sustainability requirements and long-term viability.
- Cost-effectiveness and efficient use of funding.
Sustainability Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate:
- Clear strategies for reducing environmental impact.
- Plans for long-term adoption of circular practices.
- Commitment to behavioral and business model change.
- Contribution to Europe’s resilience against resource scarcity.
The ECIV 1st Open Call represents a unique opportunity for stakeholders across Europe to collaborate on transformative projects that will shape the future of the circular economy. With substantial funding, clear missions, and strong evaluation criteria, this initiative is designed to foster innovation, sustainability, and resilience.
By participating, organizations not only gain access to financial support but also become part of a broader movement to redefine Europe’s economic model, one that values resources, minimizes waste, and builds a sustainable future for generations to come. Apply here.
