Jan 13, 2026

CBU JU publishes new Annual Work Programme with major funding for circular bio-based research

The Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU) has published its 2026 Annual Work Programme, setting out strategic priorities and funding opportunities for advancing circular bio-based innovation across Europe. The programme supports a wide range of research, innovation, and industrial deployment activities aligned with EU policy goals such as the Green Deal, EU Bioeconomy Strategy, and Clean Industrial Deal.

Under the new Work Programme, CBE JU will open a call for project proposals with a total indicative budget of €170.7 million to support collaborative projects spanning the full innovation chain — from early-stage research to large-scale industrial deployment.

Who can apply

The call is open to European research teams, universities, technology centres, SMEs, industry partners, and public organisations that form consortia with partners from different EU Member States or associated countries. Projects must align with Horizon Europe eligibility rules for collaborative research.

What’s funded

The Work Programme features 13 dedicated topics:

Flagship Innovation Actions (high-TRL industrial deployment):

Boosting biorefinery competitiveness through biotech – €20 million
SSbD bio-based alternatives for fertilising/crop protection – €20 million
SSbD bio-based solutions for home/personal care – €20 million
Diversification of nutritional food ingredient sources – €20 million
(Projects in these topics can expect funding in the multi-million range aligned with these envelopes)

Innovation Actions (TRL 6–7):

Biotech routes for valorisation of residual biomass – €14 million
Bio-based additives for recyclability/biodegradability – €14 million
Bio-based chemicals/materials from woody residues – €14 million
High-performance, circular-by-design bio-based thermosets – €14 million
Films and coatings for circular packaging – €14 million

Research and Innovation Actions (TRL 5):

Separation and purification challenges in biorefineries – €6.5 million
SSbD bio-based polymers from alternative sources – €6.5 million
Breakthrough sustainable bio-based textile fibres – €6.5 million

Coordination and Support Action:

Supporting industry transition to sustainable and circular bio-based products and processes – €1.2 million

Key dates & submission

Call opening: 23 April 2026
Deadline for submission: 22 September 2026 (17:00 Brussels time)
Researchers are encouraged to prepare proposals early and coordinate with TUD’s European Project Center.