The Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU) has published the work programme for 2026. In total, over €170 million is available for projects within the European bioeconomy, distributed across thirteen thematic calls.
Focus on large-scale biorefineries
An important part of the program is the focus on so-called flagship projects. These involve large-scale demonstration plants that apply new technologies on an industrial scale. Within this category, the emphasis is on biorefineries that process urban bio-waste streams into high-quality chemicals and materials.
With this approach, CBE JU focuses explicitly on the phase between research and market introduction. The flagship projects must demonstrate that new conversion technologies are not only technically feasible but also economically applicable on a larger scale.
Wider range of raw materials and applications
In addition to the focus on large-scale installations, the work programme also includes calls aimed at broadening the raw material base. This involves examining alternative biomass streams, such as residual streams from forestry and other non-food-related sources.
The development of alternative proteins also receives attention within the program. These projects focus on new production routes and applications, with the aim of contributing to a more sustainable food system and new market opportunities for biobased products.
Opening of calls from April 2026
The calls within the work program are opened on April 23, 2026 and close on September 22 2026.
The program is open to consortia of companies, knowledge institutions, and governments from across Europe. As such, it also offers opportunities for parties from the Netherlands and the Benelux active in biochemistry and biobased materials.
The work programme is part of the broader European commitment to the bioeconomy, in which public-private partnerships play a central role. Through CBE JU, projects are supported that aim to accelerate the step from innovation to industrial application.
Source: Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking
Photo: Elena Noeva, Adobe Stock
