The call for proposals “Education Lab for RTI Competences in the Circular Economy 2026” by the Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG) and the Federal Ministry for Innovation, Mobility and Infrastructure (BMIMI) is now open. Funding is available for the establishment and operation of an education lab that promotes practical, future-oriented skills in the circular economy.
The aim is to develop and establish innovative knowledge and learning resources related to research, technology and innovation (RTI) across the entire circular value chain. The education lab targets teachers and students at upper secondary level, particularly in vocational schools (e.g. HTLs and HLWs) from grade 9 onwards.
Who can apply?
Applications are only accepted from consortia comprising at least three organisations. Each consortium must include one research organisation acting as consortium coordinator and at least two additional research organisations and/or other non-economic organisations with their own legal personality. All participating organisations must act within the scope of their non-economic activities.
In addition, mandatory Letters of Intent (LOIs) are required from at least four upper secondary educational institutions and four companies based in Austria. The companies must ensure the practical relevance of the educational content by contributing appropriate sector-specific expertise.
Funding conditions
- Maximum funding amount: EUR 2 million
- Funding rate: up to 85%
- Project duration: 4 to 5 years
- Application deadline: 15 June 2027, 12:00 noon (CEST)
- Funding decision: autumn 2027
An information webinar on the education lab will take place on 25 November 2026. Further details about the webinar are available by email at teresa.matousek@bmimi.gv.at.
Full details of the call for proposals, including the call guidelines and cost guidelines, are available on the FFG website.