Demonstration, deployment and upscaling of circular systemic solutions in cities and regions (Circular Cities and Regions Initiative)

The main goal of this opportunity is to support cities and regions in implementing and showcasing circular systemic solutions that advance the circular economy. It focuses on stimulating social and technological innovation, developing new governance and business models, and fostering climate mitigation. The initiative encourages multi-sectoral collaboration, aiming to reduce pressures on natural resources and enhance Europe's competitiveness. Geographic scope includes cities and regions in EU Member States and Associated Countries, with a strong emphasis on knowledge transfer and upscaling across diverse local contexts.

• The consortium should include at least 3 demonstration cities/regions and 6 replication cities/regions as beneficiaries.
• Projects must implement and demonstrate circular systemic solutions in cities and regions, involving relevant stakeholders and addressing at least two sectors and value chains.
• Proposals must define clear financing strategies, include monitoring and evaluation, and facilitate knowledge transfer for replication and upscaling.
• Synergies with other circular economy projects and initiatives, including CCRI partners, must be ensured.
• A dedicated task and resources for collaboration with the CCRI office and related projects is required.

Examples:

• A city consortium piloting circular waste management and sustainable construction practices, then transferring the model to other cities.
• A group of regions collaborating to introduce circular food systems and textile recycling, engaging local businesses and academia.
• Multiple towns working together to create shared circular procurement policies and business models, supported by financial intermediaries.

• Personnel costs
• Subcontracting
• Travel and subsistence
• Equipment (depreciation or rental)
• Consumables and materials
• Dissemination and communication
• Access to research infrastructure
• IPR and certification
• Audit costs
• Indirect costs (25% flat rate)
• Internally invoiced services

• Budget for this Call: 18.000.000€
• Number of Grants attributed: 2
• Budget per project: 9.000.000€

• The consortium must include at least 3 demonstration cities/regions and 6 replication cities/regions as beneficiaries.
• Applicants must be public local or regional authorities or their groupings in EU Member States and Associated Countries.
• Eligibility for non-EU or non-Associated Countries depends on specific arrangements and may require additional provisions.
• Proposals must involve a range of stakeholders, including policymakers, academia, civil society, private sector, social economy entities, and financial intermediaries.
• Projects must address at least two sectors and value chains.
• Applicants must ensure collaboration with the CCRI office and related projects.