Funding of research and development projects for technologies enabling an efficient circular economy

The Hessian grant program supports companies with a business location in Hesse in innovative research and development projects aimed at promoting an efficient circular economy. Funding is provided for industrial research projects (TRL 4) as well as experimental developments up to TRL 8, which focus on the development of new sorting and recycling technologies or processes to increase the use of recyclates. Eligible applicants include both small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and large companies that can demonstrate eligible costs of at least €100,000 and aim for a project duration of a maximum of 36 months. The grant amounts to between 25% and 50% of eligible expenses depending on the company size and project phase. Eligible expenses include personnel costs, material and overhead costs, as well as contract research, licenses, patents, and consulting – travel expenses are excluded. A total of up to €1 million per project can be applied for.

The funding call officially ended on 13.10.2023, but applications can be submitted continuously; processing will commence from 2024, subject to sufficient state funds. Evaluation is based on the level of innovation, contribution to the circular economy, and the benefit to the economic location of Hesse. To apply, a completed application form, a project description based on the WIBank template, an SME self-declaration (for SMEs), and the net income form must be submitted. The program aims to support companies in the transformation from linear to circular value creation and to sustainably strengthen Hesse’s innovative capacity. Interested companies receive preliminary consultation and can find detailed information about the funding conditions in the provided guidelines and forms.