Textile circularity through advanced processing and manufacturing technologies and system approaches (IA) (Textiles for the Future partnership)

Overview

Supports innovation in textile circularity by funding advanced processing and manufacturing technologies, sustainable chemical solutions, and system approaches to reduce virgin fossil-based materials in textile production. Targets consortia involving industry partners, SMEs, startups, and value chain stakeholders.

Who Can Apply

Consortia of legal entities, including businesses (SMEs, startups, larger companies), research organizations, and other stakeholders in the textile value chain. Third-party financial support (FSTP) is reserved for SMEs.

Funding Details

• Maximum grant amount: €12,500,000
• Funding rate: Not specified (lump-sum model)
• Co-funding: 10–25% of the EU contribution must be allocated as financial support to third-party SMEs (max €150,000 per SME)

What Is Funded

• Innovative processing technologies for recycled, regenerated, and bio-based fibres across textile manufacturing stages (spinning, weaving, knitting, dyeing, finishing)
• Sustainable chemical solutions for textile production
• Biodiversity outcome quantification using Monitoring, Reporting, and Validation (MRV) methodologies
• Quality assurance and mitigation strategies for material/chemical processing challenges
• Best practices, training materials, and tools for risk-sharing and scaling approaches
• Business models and system approaches enabling equitable cost/risk distribution

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• Target Technology Readiness Levels (TRL): 4–6

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-09-21
• Deadline: 2027-02-01

Application Process (High-Level)

Single-stage submission via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal. Proposals must include a business case and exploitation strategy (extended page limit).

Post-Award Obligations

• Financial support to third-party SMEs (FSTP) must be implemented as grants.
• The granting authority may object to ownership transfers or exclusive licensing of results for up to 4 years post-project.
• Reporting and dissemination requirements apply (details in model grant agreement).

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible countries: EU Member States, Horizon Europe Associated Countries (Norway, Iceland, UK, Switzerland), and select non-associated countries with specific provisions.
• Application language: English.

Notes

• Proposals must demonstrate integration of research and innovation, not merely combine existing technologies.
• Active involvement of material suppliers, brands, end users, and end-of-life managers (collectors, recyclers) is encouraged.
• Synergies with other projects are permitted but not mandatory.