Understanding the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU) 2024 Call for Projects in Ireland
The Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU) is a key initiative within the European Union’s efforts to foster a sustainable and innovative bioeconomy. Managed under the Horizon Europe framework, CBE JU aims to support research, development, and demonstration projects that advance bio-based solutions, emphasizing circularity, sustainability, and industrial competitiveness. This guide provides an overview tailored to stakeholders in Ireland interested in the upcoming 2024 project proposals, highlighting the purpose, scope, and key requirements of the call.
What is the CBE JU and Why Does It Matter for Ireland?
The CBE JU is a public-private partnership with a budget of approximately €2 billion, launched in 2021 and operating until 2031. It builds upon the success of its predecessor, the Bio-Based Industries Joint Undertaking (BBI JU), and contributes directly to the European Green Deal objectives. The initiative specifically funds projects that develop bio-based materials and products derived from waste and biomass, emphasizing innovation, sustainability, and the principles of a circular economy.
For Ireland, the CBE JU represents a significant opportunity to participate in cutting-edge research and industrial projects. The Irish government has allocated around €27 million for CBE JU activities within the country, supporting a range of projects involving universities, research institutions, and private companies, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The focus on resource valorization—from agricultural residues to aquatic biomass—aligns with Ireland’s strategic priorities in sustainable resource management and green innovation.
Scope of the 2024 Call for Proposals
The 2024 call invites proposals across a broad spectrum of activities, from early-stage research to large-scale demonstration projects. The funding categories include:
- Research and Innovation Actions (RIA): Focused on developing and validating new bio-based technologies and processes.
- Innovation Actions (IA): Aimed at scaling up and demonstrating mature technologies, including flagship projects that establish large-scale, first-of-its-kind bio-based facilities.
- Coordination and Support Actions (CSA): Designed to foster cooperation, stakeholder engagement, and dissemination activities.
In 2024, the call covers 18 specific topics related to bio-based value chains, sustainable chemicals, innovative materials, and circular bioeconomy solutions. The total budget allocated for these topics amounts to approximately €213 million, with individual project funding varying according to the action type and scope.
Key Requirements for Proposals
Applicants must prepare proposals that align with the specific topics outlined in the call, demonstrating technological innovation, market potential, and sustainability impact. The submission process is conducted online via the European Commission’s funding portal, and interested parties are encouraged to consult the detailed documentation early in the process.
Proposals should include a clear description of objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and a plan for dissemination and exploitation. Additionally, projects involving SMEs are particularly encouraged, given their role in fostering innovation and market uptake.
Important Deadlines and Tips
The application timeline for the 2024 call is set by the European Commission, with submission deadlines typically in the first half of the year. Stakeholders are advised to review the official call documents and participate in networking events or info days, which facilitate collaboration and partnership-building.
To improve the chances of success, applicants should focus on demonstrating the novelty of their approach, the relevance to CBE JU’s strategic objectives, and the potential for industrial and societal impact. Engaging with national contact points or industry associations can also provide valuable support during proposal preparation.
Conclusion
The 2024 CBE JU call offers a significant opportunity for Irish researchers, companies, and institutions to contribute to Europe’s transition towards a sustainable bioeconomy. By aligning project proposals with the call’s thematic priorities and leveraging Ireland’s expertise in biomass and resource management, stakeholders can play a vital role in advancing innovative, circular, and environmentally friendly bio-based solutions.