DigiCirc Circular Cities call offers up to €60,000 to innovative SMEs

DEADLINE: 31 January 2021

The first open call of the pan-European DigiCirc project has been launched - looking for innovative SMEs that are working to help bring the circular economy to cities across the continent.

The Horizon 2020-funded programme brings together companies (small and large), public bodies, and researchers to work together to make the economy more sustainable by making it circular. This is acheived through using materials and energy more efficiently for longer and ensuring leftovers and waste are used by someone else.

For this first call, the DigiCirc team will select a minimum of 15 consortia, composed of at least two SMEs/start-ups, developing innovative solutions addressing identified circular cities challenges. SMEs will be given the opportunity to use the DigiCirc Matchmaking Platform to look for other SMEs if they need a partner to build a consortium.

The selected consortia will get direct funding of up to €20,000 and integrate a highly intensive and innovative 12 week-long innovation support programme, divided into two phases:

Phase 1: To develop their business plan and adapt their solution for the targeted area

Phase 2: Demonstrate their solutions in a relevant environment and shape their commercial strategy

At the end of the accelerator programme, five consortia will be selected to receive further funding of €100,000. They will have up to six months to develop and test their prototype with a view to a subsequent commercial launch.

What’s in it for SMEs?

  • Up to €60,000 equity-free funding per SME/start-up
  • Access to specially developed digital tools
  • One-on-one business coaching support
  • Thematic mentoring support provided by industry experts

What are the minimum requirements to apply?

  • Being a consortium of at least two SMEs or start-up (visit the Matchmaking Platform)
  • Based in one of the European Union Member States or a Horizon 2020 associated country
  • Addressing one of the circular cities challenges

Find out more, including details of how to apply, here.

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Resource efficiency Digital
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