BIOECONOMY GIANTS supports the piloting and scaling up of innovative bio-based products through its second funding call, Open Call II – Call for Scaling Up and Piloting. A total of €280,000 is available to fund four projects.
BIOECONOMY GIANTS is funded under Horizon Europe by the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU). The project aims to strengthen the role of primary producers in the bioeconomy and foster new partnerships between agriculture, forestry and bio-based industries.
What projects are eligible for funding?
The call seeks pilot projects that convert biomass and by-products from agriculture, forestry and the agri-food sector into high-value bio-based products. Potential applications include bio-based materials and packaging, food and feed ingredients, and bio-based fertilisers.
Projects should test or scale up innovative technologies and processes while developing new cooperation and business models along the value chain. Particular emphasis is placed on the active involvement of primary producers.
Who can apply?
Applications are open to consortia of two to four partners, including companies (SMEs and large enterprises), agricultural and forestry businesses, clusters, research institutions and other organisations.
Important: Each consortium must include at least one primary producer or an associated organisation. These partners must actively contribute to project implementation and value creation, rather than acting solely as biomass suppliers. International partnerships are not required.
Application process and support
In addition to financial support, selected projects will benefit from tailored mentoring, technical guidance and a climate impact assessment.
Applications must be submitted online and in English. Following the evaluation in January 2027, funding decisions are expected to be announced in February 2027. The selected projects are scheduled to start in March 2027 and will run for seven months.
Key facts and further information
- Funding: Up to €70,000 per project
- Total budget: €280,000
- Projects to be funded: 4
- Project duration: 7 months
- Consortium: 2–4 partners, including at least one primary producer
- Application deadline: 31 December 2026, 17:00 CET
Further information is available at: