Capacity Building and Circular Partnerships for Social Economy SMEs

The measure supports social economy enterprises in the European Union, promoting the development of circular partnerships between mainstream businesses and social economy SMEs. It aims to strengthen the circular economy through collaboration across different sectors, increasing the competitiveness of social economy enterprises and encouraging sustainable practices.

Type of Project

• Projects that promote collaboration between social economy SMEs and mainstream businesses in circular value chains
• Projects that develop partnerships to implement circular solutions, such as recycling, material reuse, and remanufacturing
• Projects that encourage the creation of circularity hubs, promoting innovation in sustainable products and processes
• Projects addressing challenges related to the transition to a circular economy, promoting social inclusion and sustainability

Eligibility Criteria

• Companies legally established in EU Member States or countries associated with the SMP COSME Programme
• Social economy SMEs and mainstream businesses with experience in circular practices
• Projects must focus on the development of circular partnerships and value chains

Eligible Expenses

• Up to 90% co-funding of eligible costs for the development of circular partnerships
• Costs associated with market research, workshops, development of circularity strategies, and implementation of innovative solutions
• Support for developing new value chains and adapting business practices to meet circular economy requirements

Financial Information

• Co-funding percentage: Up to 90% of eligible costs through the SMP COSME Programme
• Maximum funding: EUR 1,000,000 per project
• Companies must present a sustainability plan to ensure the viability of circular practices after funding​