While studying sustainable innovation strategies in my master’s program, I came across a great example of how public funding can accelerate private-sector transformation: the Up2Circ Programme.
Funded by the European Commission’s Horizon Europe framework, Up2Circ offers direct financial support and strategic guidance to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the EU to help them transition toward circular business models.
Why this program matters
We talk a lot about the circular economy. But how can smaller businesses actually make the leap?
This program is a real answer to that question. Up2Circ combines:
Customised circularity assessments with expert advisors,
Free online learning modules through the Up2Circ Academy, and
Funding of up to €50,000 per project to implement circular actions.
This isn’t theory, it’s about piloting, prototyping, and launching real changes in how businesses design, produce, and deliver value.
What types of projects are eligible?
Up2Circ funds two types of projects:
🔬 Small Scale (€15,000, 6 months)
These are feasibility studies for circular business ideas, like:
Introducing product-as-a-service models
Building sharing platforms
Exploring repair, reuse, and remanufacturing in service portfolios
🚀 Large Scale (€50,000, 12 months)
These support the implementation of tangible circular solutions, such as:
Integrating recycled materials into production
Prototyping circular product designs
Piloting zero-waste processes or low-emission logistics
What I found especially smart
What makes Up2Circ more than just a funding mechanism is its capacity-building first approach. SMEs must complete a circularity assessment before applying. This ensures that:
Proposals are aligned with the company’s real potential
Funding decisions are based on a deeper strategic understanding
Projects are better designed, with real long-term viability
As someone who's been reflecting a lot on the balance between policy frameworks and entrepreneurial action, I love this balance: educate, advise, empower, fund.
Final thought
Transitioning to a circular economy doesn’t start with grand statements; it starts with targeted, practical steps. And programs like Up2Circ are helping EU SMEs take those steps, one business model at a time.
Learn more or apply here: up2circ.eu
— Morena
Explore how funding programs like The LIFE Programme support climate action investments.