The Circular Economy Programme supports activities that help save resources, reduce waste, and promote sustainable practices. It is aimed at businesses, municipalities, and other organizations that want to contribute to environmental protection.

The programme provides funding for the sustainable use of mineral resources, landscape restoration, the organization of geological information, and actions that reduce the environmental impact of resource extraction. It also supports the adoption of circular economy models, raising environmental awareness, and developing sustainable consumption and production solutions.

In the 2025 spring application round, funding will be available for obtaining EMAS environmental management certification and the EU Ecolabel. The autumn round will include additional activities, which are still being finalized. In previous years, the programme has supported projects involving eco-design, life-cycle assessment, industrial symbiosis, and circular-based products and services. It has also funded efforts to prevent waste, promote reuse, and conduct research related to plastics, textiles, and sustainable use of natural resources.

Eligible applicants include local governments, businesses, non-profit organizations, foundations, public legal entities, and sole proprietors. Projects can last up to 24 months, and research or development activities can run up to 36 months. Extensions may be granted if needed.

Applications go through compliance and content evaluations, and the process may take up to three months from the application deadline. Specific funding amounts and requirements are published at the opening of each call.

The Circular Economy Programme is a valuable opportunity for organizations to make their activities more environmentally friendly and to support Estonia’s transition to sustainability. Through this programme, practical and impactful solutions can be implemented to conserve natural resources and raise awareness on environmental issues.