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European Commission

Demonstrators for clusters of social circular enterprises

Funds two projects, each worth up to EUR 5 million, to help clusters of social enterprises share technology for sorting, recycling and repairing waste.

ClosedEuropean CommissionEU

This topic runs as a two-stage Innovation Action call inside Horizon Europe's blind evaluation pilot. The first-stage proposal, due 23 September 2025, is scored anonymously on a dedicated Stage 1 BLIND application and evaluation form that must not name the applicant organisation, its acronym, logo or personnel. Only proposals that clear that stage move to a second, full proposal using the standard…

The Commission wants demonstrator projects where clusters of social circular enterprises — mostly SMEs that employ people with a distance to the labour market — jointly adopt technology such as AI-based sorting or digital pricing tools for waste streams like textiles, WEEE or construction materials. Each demonstrator must span at least two Member States or associated countries and group multiple clusters together.

CycleiHow often this grant runs - e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.No fixed schedule
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.-
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.-
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.-
Award typeiThe form of funding - grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.-
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.€10M

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