Harmonizing and optimising composting plants performances in Europe

The grant opportunity titled "Harmonizing and Optimising Composting Plants Performances in Europe" falls under Horizon Europe, specifically within Cluster 6, focusing on the circular bioeconomy. The primary aim is to improve the efficiency and standardization of composting plants across Europe, promoting best practices and innovative strategies in organic waste management.

Eligible applicants for this grant include a range of entities such as research institutions, universities, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), large companies, public-private partnerships, and non-governmental organizations involved in waste management and the bioeconomy sector. The program encourages a consortium approach, though individual applicants may be considered depending on specific circumstances.

The funding structure is categorized as a HORIZON Lump Sum Grant, indicating that financial support is provided as a lump sum with predefined amounts. This specific call is based on Coordination and Support Actions (CSA), which typically requires collaboration among multiple partners, hinting at a preference for consortium applications.

Geographically, the grant is open to entities from EU member states and associated countries. There are also opportunities for participation from non-EU countries under specific provisions, promoting international collaboration in achieving the program's objectives.

The thematic emphasis is placed on waste management, particularly concerning composting processes. The target sectors reflect the goals of the circular economy and bioeconomy, focusing on optimizing composting infrastructure, managing biodegradable materials, and enhancing environmental protection.

The project stage is expected to encompass activities like validation and demonstration, which means proposals should aim to build on existing technologies and practices rather than starting from basic research.

Funding is anticipated to range from €1 million to €5 million per project, with an overall call budget of approximately €60 million. This funding structure is set within a single-stage application process, with a deadline for submissions on September 17, 2025. No co-funding is required as the lump sum grants cover full project costs.

Though specific success rates are not detailed, competition is typically high, with historical averages suggesting a 10-39% chance of securing funding.

This grant effectively seeks to enhance composting practices in line with the EU’s environmental goals under the European Green Deal, promoting a cleaner, more sustainable bioeconomy. Eligible applicants engaged in solutions for reducing pollution and improving resource efficiency are encouraged to apply, providing an opportunity to contribute to significant advancements in waste management across Europe.

This is a summary of EU funding opportunities related to Horizon Europe, specifically focusing on Cluster 6 calls for proposals with a single-stage submission process. The calls aim to support a clean, competitive, and circular economy, as well as a sustainable bioeconomy. The primary focus is on improving waste management practices, promoting innovative bio-based materials, and ensuring the sustainability of composting processes.

The calls are categorized under three main areas: Biodiversity (BIODIV), Circular Bioeconomy (CIRCBIO), and Zero Pollution (ZEROPOLLUTION). Each topic within these areas has a specific budget allocated for the year 2025, and an indicative number of grants to be awarded. The opening date for submissions is May 6, 2025, and the deadline is September 17, 2025, at 17:00 Brussels time.

Here's a breakdown of the funding opportunities:

Biodiversity (BIODIV):

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-BIODIV-01: HORIZON Programme Cofund Actions, with a budget of EUR 20,000,000 and an indicative number of 1 grant. This is a co-fund action.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-BIODIV-02: HORIZON Coordination and Support Actions, with a budget of EUR 4,000,000 and an indicative number of 1 grant.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-BIODIV-03: HORIZON Research and Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 24,000,000 and an indicative number of 2 grants.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-BIODIV-04: HORIZON Research and Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 22,000,000 and an indicative number of 2 grants.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-BIODIV-05: HORIZON Research and Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 18,000,000 and an indicative number of 3 grants.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-BIODIV-06: HORIZON Research and Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 16,000,000 and an indicative number of 3 grants. The contribution is between EUR 5,000,000 and EUR 6,000,000.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-BIODIV-07: HORIZON Research and Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 12,000,000 and an indicative number of 2 grants.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-BIODIV-08: HORIZON Research and Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 14,000,000 and an indicative number of 2 grants.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-BIODIV-09: HORIZON Research and Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 6,000,000 and an indicative number of 2 grants.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-BIODIV-10: HORIZON Research and Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 11,000,000 and an indicative number of 2 grants. The contribution is between EUR 5,000,000 and EUR 6,000,000.

Circular Bioeconomy (CIRCBIO):

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-CIRCBIO-01: HORIZON Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 10,000,000 and an indicative number of 2 grants. The contribution is around EUR 5,000,000.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-CIRCBIO-02: HORIZON Research and Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 8,000,000 and an indicative number of 2 grants. The contribution is around EUR 4,000,000.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-CIRCBIO-03: HORIZON Research and Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 8,000,000 and an indicative number of 2 grants. The contribution is around EUR 4,000,000.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-CIRCBIO-04: HORIZON Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 10,000,000 and an indicative number of 2 grants. The contribution is around EUR 5,000,000.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-CIRCBIO-05: HORIZON Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 12,000,000 and an indicative number of 2 grants. The contribution is around EUR 6,000,000.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-CIRCBIO-06: HORIZON Research and Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 8,000,000 and an indicative number of 2 grants. The contribution is around EUR 4,000,000.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-CIRCBIO-07: HORIZON Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 18,000,000 and an indicative number of 2 grants. The contribution is around EUR 9,000,000.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-CIRCBIO-08: HORIZON Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 11,000,000 and an indicative number of 2 grants. The contribution is around EUR 5,500,000.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-CIRCBIO-09: HORIZON Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 10,000,000 and an indicative number of 2 grants. The contribution is around EUR 5,000,000.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-CIRCBIO-10: HORIZON Coordination and Support Actions, with a budget of EUR 2,000,000 and an indicative number of 1 grant. The contribution is around EUR 2,000,000.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-CIRCBIO-11: HORIZON Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 11,000,000 and an indicative number of 2 grants. The contribution is around EUR 5,500,000.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-CIRCBIO-12: HORIZON Coordination and Support Actions, with a budget of EUR 2,000,000 and an indicative number of 1 grant. The contribution is around EUR 2,000,000.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-CIRCBIO-13: HORIZON Research and Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 8,000,000 and an indicative number of 2 grants. The contribution is around EUR 4,000,000.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-CIRCBIO-14: HORIZON Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 12,000,000 and an indicative number of 2 grants. The contribution is around EUR 6,000,000.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-CIRCBIO-15: HORIZON Programme Cofund Actions, with a budget of EUR 30,000,000 and an indicative number of 1 grant. This is a co-fund action.

Zero Pollution (ZEROPOLLUTION):

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-ZEROPOLLUTION-01: HORIZON Research and Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 10,000,000 and an indicative number of 1 grant. The contribution is around EUR 10,000,000.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-ZEROPOLLUTION-02: HORIZON Coordination and Support Actions, with a budget of EUR 2,000,000 and an indicative number of 1 grant. The contribution is around EUR 2,000,000.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-ZEROPOLLUTION-03: HORIZON Research and Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 8,000,000 and an indicative number of 2 grants. The contribution is around EUR 4,000,000.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-ZEROPOLLUTION-04: HORIZON Research and Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 6,000,000 and an indicative number of 1 grant. The contribution is around EUR 6,000,000.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-ZEROPOLLUTION-05: HORIZON Research and Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 12,000,000 and an indicative number of 2 grants. The contribution is around EUR 6,000,000.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-ZEROPOLLUTION-06: HORIZON Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 8,000,000 and an indicative number of 1 grant. The contribution is around EUR 8,000,000.

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-ZEROPOLLUTION-07: HORIZON Innovation Actions, with a budget of EUR 12,000,000 and an indicative number of 2 grants. The contribution is around EUR 6,000,000.

Key points to consider:

Admissibility Conditions: Proposal page limits and layout are described in Annex A and Annex E of the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes and Part B of the Application Form.

Eligible Countries: Described in Annex B of the Work Programme General Annexes. Some non-EU/non-Associated Countries have specific provisions for funding.

Financial and Operational Capacity and Exclusion: Described in Annex C of the Work Programme General Annexes.

Evaluation and Award: Award criteria, scoring, and thresholds are described in Annex D of the Work Programme General Annexes. Submission and evaluation processes are described in Annex F and the Online Manual.

Grant Agreement: Eligible costs will be in the form of a lump sum.

Specific Conditions: Detailed in the specific topic of the Work Programme.

Application and Evaluation: Application forms are available in the Submission System. Standard evaluation forms will be used.

Additional Documents: Include HE Main Work Programme 2025, HE Programme Guide, HE Framework Programme 2021/695, EU Financial Regulation 2024/2509, and other guidance documents.

The call HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-CIRCBIO-12 specifically targets the harmonization and optimization of composting plant performances in Europe. It aims to improve the territorial deployment of composting plants and promote the sharing of best practices among waste management operators in the EU and Associated Countries. The budget for this call is EUR 2,000,000, with an indicative number of 1 grant.

In summary, this Horizon Europe Cluster 6 call provides numerous funding opportunities for projects that contribute to biodiversity, circular bioeconomy, and zero pollution goals. The calls encourage international cooperation, multi-actor approaches, and the involvement of waste management operators and municipalities. The funding mechanism is based on lump sum contributions, and detailed guidance is available in the various annexes and programme guides provided on the Funding & Tenders Portal.

This opportunity is about fostering a more sustainable and circular economy by addressing key challenges in waste management and promoting innovative solutions in the bioeconomy sector. It seeks to improve the performance and harmonization of composting plants across Europe, reduce pollution, and enhance biodiversity. The EU is investing in projects that can demonstrate practical improvements in waste management, promote the use of bio-based materials, and contribute to a cleaner environment. If you are involved in waste management, bioeconomy, or environmental sustainability, this is an opportunity to secure funding for research, innovation, and coordination activities that align with the EU's environmental goals.

Eligible Applicant Types: The eligible applicant types are not explicitly stated in the provided text. However, the text mentions the involvement of waste management operators and municipalities, suggesting that local authorities, waste management companies (including SMEs and large enterprises), research institutions, and potentially other types of organizations are eligible. The encouragement of international cooperation and a multi-actor approach implies a broad range of eligible entities.

Funding Type: The funding type is primarily a grant, specifically a HORIZON Lump Sum Grant, as indicated by the type of action HORIZON-CSA (HORIZON Coordination and Support Actions) and the type of MGA (Model Grant Agreement) HORIZON Lump Sum Grant [HORIZON-AG-LS]. There are also HORIZON Programme Cofund Actions, HORIZON Research and Innovation Actions and HORIZON Innovation Actions.

Consortium Requirement: The opportunity encourages international cooperation and a multi-actor approach, which suggests that a consortium is preferred, although it is not explicitly stated whether a single applicant is excluded. The mention of partner search also implies that consortia are welcome.

Beneficiary Scope (Geographic Eligibility): The geographic eligibility includes EU Member States and Associated Countries. The text also mentions that non-EU/non-Associated Countries may have specific provisions for funding their participants, suggesting that some third-country participation is possible.

Target Sector: The program targets the following sectors: circular economy, bioeconomy, waste management, composting, biodegradable and compostable plastics, environmental protection (air, water, soil), and sustainable materials.

Mentioned Countries: The text explicitly mentions EU Member States and Associated Countries. It also refers to non-EU/non-Associated Countries (third countries) with specific funding provisions.

Project Stage: The project stage appears to be focused on coordination and support actions (CSA), which typically involve activities such as analysis, assessment, best practice collection, and recommendations. This suggests a focus on development, validation, and demonstration rather than basic research or commercialization. The call aims to harmonize existing composting practices and promote innovative strategies, indicating a need for projects that can build upon existing knowledge and technologies.

Funding Amount: The funding amount is variable depending on the specific topic within the call. For the HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-CIRCBIO-12 topic, which is a HORIZON-CSA, the budget is EUR 2,000,000. Other topics within the same call have different budget allocations, ranging from EUR 2,000,000 to EUR 30,000,000. The indicative number of grants also varies by topic.

Application Type: The application type is an open call, as indicated by the "Open For Submission" status. The call is a single-stage submission process.

Nature of Support: The beneficiaries will receive money in the form of a lump sum grant to support their coordination and support actions.

Application Stages: The application process is a single-stage process.

Success Rates: The success rates are not explicitly mentioned, but the indicative number of grants for each topic provides some insight. For example, the HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-CIRCBIO-12 topic aims to award around 1 grant with a budget of EUR 2,000,000. Other topics have different numbers of grants and budget allocations, which would influence the success rate.

Co-funding Requirement: Co-funding requirements are not explicitly mentioned in the text. However, as this is a Horizon Europe grant, co-funding may be required depending on the specific rules of the call and the type of organization applying.

Summary: This Horizon Europe call (HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-CIRCBIO-12) focuses on "Harmonizing and optimising composting plants performances in Europe." It seeks proposals for Coordination and Support Actions (CSA) aimed at improving the circular economy and bioeconomy by involving waste management operators and promoting innovative bio-based materials. The primary goal is to harmonize composting plant performances across the EU and Associated Countries, addressing the challenge of biodegrading compostable packaging. Projects should analyze composting plant technical performances, select performance parameters for best practices, collect and assess best practices, and provide recommendations for harmonizing EU composting processes and improving environmental performance. International cooperation and the involvement of waste managers are encouraged. The funding is provided as a lump sum grant, with a budget of EUR 2,000,000 for the HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-CIRCBIO-12 topic. The call is a single-stage submission process, with the deadline for applications on September 17, 2025. Eligible applicants include local authorities, waste management companies, research institutions, and other organizations involved in the waste management and composting sectors from EU Member States and Associated Countries, with potential participation from third countries under specific provisions.