The call is relevant for cities and regions that are looking to develop a Circular Solution around the Circular-by-design fibre-based packaging with improved properties. The flagship call requires projects to contribute to the establishment of a full-scale manufacturing facility and related value chain(s) for the sustainable large-scale production of fibre-based packaging. Projects should consider end-users/consumers perception, behaviour and preferences across the different steps of products’ lifecycle: product design, use and end-of-life.

All stakeholders of the bio-based industries ecosystem including public authorities can apply for CBE JU funding. CBE JU calls for project proposals are open to any legal entity, be it private or public, for-profit or not-for-profit organisation, including:

• Large companies
• Small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs)
• Research and technology organisations (RTOs)
• Universities
• Associations

Proposals should upscale production technologies and deploy the complete value chain to fibre-based packaging materials at end TRL: 8. Consumer / industrial primary, secondary and tertiary packaging products are in scope. Fibre-derived packaging is also in scope. The use of bio-based add-ons (e.g., additives, coatings, adhesives, films, etc…) to improve properties of the fibre-based materials and/or end packaging product(s) is also in scope - proven that they are not hindering targeted EoL and that fibre is the main component of the packaging. Recycling, reuse and remanufacturing are all in scope.

The total indicative budget for the topic is EUR 20 million. It is estimated that a contribution of EUR 20 million would allow these outcomes to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not preclude submission and selection of a proposal requesting different amounts.

Cities and regions can apply for funding through the following steps. Cities and regions have to select the relevant call and draft a proposal with the required details. With the CBE JU networking platform, cities and regions can find partners to build a consortium. The proposal can be submitted using the Funding and tender opportunities portal using an EU login. All the members of the consortium must have a 9-digit Participant Identification Code (PIC) to apply for funding. Draft your project proposal in the submission service section of your topic page. This link becomes available when the call opens. Fill in all the required information and submit the proposal before the call deadline.

Call launch: 3 April 2025

Call deadline: 18 September 2025 17:00 CET