The Environmental Investment Centre (KIK) has opened a new call for applications on March 24, 2025, aimed at supporting waste prevention, reducing packaging waste, and promoting reuse in Estonia. The total budget for this funding round is €5 million, with at least €2 million allocated to projects outside the Tallinn and Tartu regions.

The funding focuses on three main activities:

1. Reducing Food Waste
   Projects that create or develop platforms and systems enabling consumers and businesses to donate or redistribute food that would otherwise be wasted are eligible for funding. This includes food-sharing cabinets, cooperation with local food banks, and smart solutions for the catering and retail sectors. Individual projects can receive between €10,000 and €200,000.

2. Improving Packaging Recycling Businesses can apply for support to replace packaging lines or parts of them to adopt recyclable packaging and materials. The funding also covers packaging design costs if they are part of a comprehensive project. Grants range from €50,000 to €500,000.

3. Expanding the Use of Reusable Packaging Funding is available for investments in establishing or expanding reusable packaging systems, including acquiring necessary equipment and technology. Support for individual projects can range from €50,000 to €2 million.

Eligibility and Application Process

Small and medium-sized enterprises, non-profit organizations, foundations, and local municipalities are eligible to apply. Applications must be submitted via the e-support system, selecting the appropriate category based on the project's location:

• Tallinn and Tartu Region: Includes Tallinn city, Maardu city, and surrounding municipalities such as Harku, Saue, Saku, Kiili, Rae, Jõelähtme, Viimsi, and Tartu city.
• Outside Tallinn and Tartu: All other areas in Estonia.

The level of funding and co-financing requirements depend on the specific activity and the type of applicant. For detailed information, applicants are encouraged to review the funding conditions published on KIK’s website.

Call for Participation

The Minister of Environment has emphasized that reducing waste and promoting reuse are crucial steps toward a circular economy, contributing to environmental sustainability and resource efficiency. Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to participate and contribute to a greener Estonia.

For more information, interested parties can attend KIK’s information days or review the relevant materials on their website. https://www.kik.ee/et/toetatavad-tegevused/jaatmetekke-ja-pakendi-vahendamine