DigiCirc is a project funded by the European Commission that aims to make the economic system more sustainable through the digitalisation of the circular economy.

DigiCirc focuses on 3 themes: circular cities, the blue economy and the bioeconomy. While the calls for proposals relating to circular cities and the blue economy are closed, it is now possible to submit an application for the call regarding the bioeconomy.

This call is aimed at partnerships, consisting of at least 2 SMEs or start-ups, that propose cutting-edge digital tools, technologies and solutions in the field of the bioeconomy. In particular, proposals must address one of the following challenges:

• Challenge 1: Develop solutions, products and services based on digital technologies that increase the sustainability, circularity and competitiveness of the pharmaceutical sector;

• Challenge 2: Devise solutions, products and services aimed at promoting the circularity and sustainability of the textile and clothing sector (including packaging) by using digital technologies and increasing consumer awareness regarding sustainability.

• Challenge 3: Develop solutions, products, tools and services based on digital technologies that increase the sustainability, circularity and efficiency of construction materials and other forestry-derived products.

• Challenge 4: Devise solutions that improve the effectiveness of digital technologies in the electronics sector, by increasing and optimising circularity and sustainability.

• Challenge 5: Develop solutions based on digital technologies that address sustainability challenges regarding biomass energy, biofuels, and food waste for composting.

• Challenge 6: Devise solutions, products and services based on digital technologies to make machinery, equipment and components more circular and sustainable.

If a company wishes to submit a proposal but is not part of any consortium, it is possible to search for potential partners via a dedicated matchmaking platform.

The selected partnerships (a minimum of 15) will benefit from direct funding of up to 20,000 euros and will have the opportunity to participate in a 12-week innovation support programme, during which they can develop their business plan, demonstrate their proposed solutions and devise a specific commercial strategy.

At the end of the programme, the top 5 consortia will receive additional funding of 100,000 euros and will have up to 6 months to develop their prototype and carry out the necessary testing ahead of the commercial launch.

The call closes on 10 November at 17:00.

For further information, click here.