Open Topic: Innovative solutions for the sustainable and circular transformation of SMEs

Development and demonstration of innovative solutions for the sustainable and circular transformation of SMEs.

Skill development activities for current and future employees of SMEs.

Large-scale operational environment demonstrations with strong SME involvement.

Alignment with EU Policies - Proposals must address EU policies relevant to the green transformation of SMEs, including the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR).

Feasibility and Transferability - Solutions must be feasible, environmentally performant, and transferable to other contexts.

Policy Recommendations - Proposals must include policy recommendations to support widespread adoption and regulatory framework improvements.

Proposals duplicating topics covered by Horizon Europe Calls ‘Circular economy and bioeconomy sectors’ 2021-2022 or 2023-2024.

Proposals must include the development of policy recommendations to support the widespread adoption of validated solutions.

Collaboration with existing public organizations such as the Enterprise Europe Network and the EU pact for skills initiative is encouraged.

Applications must comply with the guidelines provided in the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes.

Proposals are submitted in two stages: initial submission and full proposal upon passing the first stage.

Proposals must include a detailed plan for the development and demonstration of innovative solutions.

Consortia must include SMEs or SME associations to ensure practical applicability.