Funding programmes and calls

Finance your project through EU Programmes

For SMEs in Europe focusing on innovation in green technologies and sectors such as bioeconomy, construction, and renewable energy, several EU funding programs offer significant opportunities. Here are a few key programs to explore:

1. Horizon Europe
   Horizon Europe is the largest EU research and innovation funding program, with a budget of €95.5 billion through 2027. It supports various sectors, including circular economy, bioeconomy, and green technologies, offering SMEs opportunities to access funding for innovative projects. For example, Cluster 5 (Climate, Energy, and Mobility) and Cluster 6 (Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Environment) offer funding to projects related to sustainable energy, circular construction materials, and bio-based innovations..
2. LIFE Programme
   The LIFE Programme funds projects that contribute to the EU’s environmental and climate action objectives. It covers four sub-programmes: nature and biodiversity, circular economy and quality of life, climate change mitigation and adaptation, and clean energy transition. SMEs can apply for funding under the Circular Economy and Quality of Life sub-programme, which supports projects focusing on sustainable products and circular economy solutions. More information and calls are available through.
3. CBE JU (Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking)
   The CBE JU is a key program for advancing circular bio-based industries in Europe. With a €213 million budget for 2024, it covers areas such as sustainable bio-based chemicals, circular construction materials, and innovative bio-based solutions. This program specifically targets SMEs working on sustainable innovations and offers funding across 18 topics related to the circular bioeconomy. The next call for proposals opens in April 2024, with a deadline in September 2024. Learn more and apply through the ​.
4. Single Market Programme (SMP)
   The SMP supports SMEs in boosting competitiveness and growing within the EU’s single market. It offers funding to help SMEs access international markets, improve innovation, and build stronger business models. The program includes support for SMEs in industries related to construction, agriculture, and clean technologies.
5. The Interregional Innovation Investments (I3)
   Instrument under the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) supports innovation partnerships across EU regions to strengthen value chains and enhance economic cohesion. It is divided into three main strands: Strand 1 fosters investments in interregional innovation projects, Strand 2a supports value chain development in less-developed regions, and Strand 2b focuses on capacity building to help these regions participate effectively. The initiative encourages collaboration between businesses, research institutions, and public authorities to scale up innovations. Ultimately, I3 aims to bridge the innovation gap between regions and promote smart specialisation across the EU.

Choosing the Right Platform

• Innovation Funding: Horizon Europe, EURAXESS and the EIC Community Platform are perfect for finding calls and funding for innovation-focused projects.
• SME Growth: Use the EEN platform to expand globally and access broader support.
• Specialized Sectors: CBE JU is best for bio-based industries, while Built4People suits those in sustainable construction.
• Collaborative Networks: Leverage the European Cluster Collaboration Platform to connect across industries.
• Regional Support: The Single Market Programme (SMP) offers a dedicated focus on enhancing competitiveness for SMEs across the EU.
• Project Insights: The EASME Data Hub and IC Accelerator can provide valuable insights into successful projects and additional support for scaling innovative solutions.
• National Support: Don’t forget to explore your national funding options through National Funding Portals to access additional financial resources for your sector.