The Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU) has opened its 2025 call for proposals, representing a significant funding opportunity for companies, research centres, and university departments working in the bio-based sector. With a budget of €213 million allocated for this call, the CBE JU aims to support projects that advance competitive, circular, and sustainable bio-based industries across Europe.
What is the CBE JU?
The CBE JU is a €2 billion partnership between the European Union and the Bio-based Industries Consortium (BIC) under Horizon Europe. Its mission is to accelerate the development and deployment of bio-based alternatives to fossil-based products and systems. By supporting innovation through collaborative research and large-scale demonstration projects, CBE JU helps to foster a more sustainable and circular economy.
Who Can Apply?
The call is open to a wide range of applicants, including:
Private companies (start-ups, SMEs, and large industry),
Research and Technology Organisations (RTOs),
Universities and academic departments,
Public bodies and non-profit organisations.
While many topics are open to all types of applicants, industrial participation is particularly encouraged, as most projects require clear exploitation and scaling-up pathways.
Scope and Funding Opportunities
The 2025 call includes several types of actions:
Research and Innovation Actions (RIA): These focus on advancing knowledge and developing new technology.
Innovation Actions (IA): These target piloting, demonstration, and scaling up of innovative bio-based solutions.
Flagship Projects: These support large-scale deployment of technologies in industrial environments.
In total, more than 20 topics are included, addressing various strategic areas such as:
Valorisation of agricultural residues and side streams,
Production of sustainable bio-based chemicals and materials,
Improvement of circularity in bio-based systems,
Integration of digital and automation tools in bio-based industries,
Strengthening of rural bioeconomies and social acceptance of bio-based solutions.
Each project can receive significant co-funding, with EU contributions varying depending on the type of action. For example, RIAs can receive up to 100% of eligible costs for academic participants.
Benefits of Participation
Participation in a CBE JU project offers several strategic benefits:
Access to substantial funding for cutting-edge research and market-oriented innovation;
Enhanced visibility and credibility at the European level;
Opportunities for international collaboration with leading institutions and industrial players;
Acceleration of technology readiness through collaborative validation and demonstration;
Support for sustainability and circularity goals, contributing to both corporate and institutional ESG strategies.
Moreover, successful projects often serve as springboards for further investments and partnerships beyond the duration of the grant.
Key Considerations Before Applying
Prospective applicants should consider the following before submitting a proposal:
Alignment with CBE JU goals: Projects must contribute to the transition towards a sustainable and competitive bio-based sector in Europe.
Consortium composition: Strong consortia typically combine academic excellence, industrial relevance, and regional diversity.
Exploitation and dissemination: Applicants should demonstrate clear pathways for upscaling, market uptake, and knowledge transfer.
Administrative readiness: Preparation of a strong proposal requires adequate planning, stakeholder engagement, and familiarity with Horizon Europe guidelines.
Next Steps
The deadline for submission is anticipated in September 2025, and the call documents, including the Work Programme and guidance materials, are available on the CBE JU website. Webinars and matchmaking events are also being organised to help applicants find partners and clarify requirements.
Companies and university departments interested in sustainability, circular bioeconomy, and industrial innovation are strongly encouraged to explore the topics and assess their potential to contribute.
Now is the time to act—your next innovation could help shape the bio-based future of Europe.
