In a dynamic economy, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a key role in developing and innovating both local and international markets. However, to grow and adapt to market demands, SMEs require appropriate financial resources. In this context, identifying the right funding opportunities becomes a challenge for any entrepreneur aiming to scale their business. Regardless of the field of activity, accessing suitable funding can unlock new opportunities and significantly contribute to long-term business success.
With this in mind, we present the ERMA Booster Call, an initiative aimed at supporting innovation in the European raw materials sector. It targets startups, SMEs, and large-scale projects focused on mining, processing, and recycling. With a budget of up to EUR 2.5 million for eligible projects, funding is divided as follows: innovative startups can receive up to EUR 0.5 million, scaling SMEs up to EUR 1.5 million, and advanced mining projects up to EUR 2.5 million.
The main objectives include reducing dependence on raw material imports, encouraging innovation in extraction and recycling, promoting sustainability, and aligning with EU standards. The application process is clear and competitive, involving online business model submission, eligibility verification, potential assessment, pitch sessions, and final project selection. Selected companies benefit from financial support and access to industry expertise and networks.
The ERMA Booster Call guides innovation throughout the development process by offering both financial and strategic support to help promising ideas grow into successful businesses. The process includes customer validation, technology scaling, connections with EIT RawMaterials network partners, and market access facilitation. Companies often face obstacles such as high capital requirements, regulatory complexity, and technological risks. EIT RawMaterials helps companies overcome these challenges by providing funding, regulatory guidance, and mentorship, while promoting sustainability and circularity in the raw materials sector—both critical for Europe’s green transition.
Who Can Apply
The call is open to:
- Group 1: Startups, scale-ups, and SMEs – eligible for up to EUR 1.5 million
- Group 2: Advanced projects in mining, materials processing, and recycling – eligible for up to EUR 2.5 million
Target Sectors
Projects should directly impact the EU’s critical raw materials value chain, especially in the following areas:
- Mineral exploration
- Processing technologies
- Recycling
- Sustainable materials
- Circular economy
- Responsible sourcing
Project Duration and Financial Conditions
- Project duration: between 6 and 18 months
- Funding rate: up to 100%
- Co-funding: not mandatory, but projects showing co-funding or additional funding sources will be positively evaluated.
- Important note: Selected projects must accept EIT RawMaterials’ equity participation in the beneficiary company as part of the financial sustainability strategy of the EIT community.
For more information visit: https://eitrawmaterials.eu/erma-booster-call
What we’ve shared above is just one example of available funding for innovation in the raw materials sector. If your business operates in a different field or you’re interested in exploring other growth and support opportunities, the MSP team is here to help. Reach out to us for a tailored discussion and discover the most suitable funding sources for your business growth and scale-up journey!
Contact information is available at: https://magurelesciencepark.ro/prosme-een-2/
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