The POLREC (Supporting a Green and Resilient Europe through Polymer Recycling) Euroclusters project is pleased to announce an extension to the deadline for its Internationalisation Open Call. The new deadline for applications is now Friday, 24th May 2024, at 18:00 CET.

Opening on 22nd March 2024, this call aims to provide financial support to SMEs operating within the polymer and elastomer industries. The primary objective is to facilitate the internationalisation of these SMEs by supporting their participation in European business fairs and networking conferences, as well as an international match-making mission in Quebec, Canada. This initiative focuses on promoting solutions in polymer recycling, including mechanical, chemical, and digital approaches.

Funded Activities:

- Networking Sub-Grant: Support attendance at European business and trade fairs, conferences, exhibitions, forums, and other networking events. The funding are up to €1,500 per SME, with a total budget of €52,900, awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Up to 50 applicants will be rewarded. Applicants must submit details of the event, including the date, venue, and relevance. Events must occur before 1st July 2025.
- international matchmaking sub-grant : Support participation in a 5-day match-making mission focusing on innovative polymer-recycling solutions in Quebec, Canada. €3,600 per SME is available, with a total budget of €150,000. Up to 41 applicants will be rewarded. Applicants must demonstrate interest and relevance in developing polymer-recycling projects and the added value of participating in the Canadian market.

The call is open from 22nd March 2024 until 24th May 2024, 18:00 CET. There may be additional cut-off dates in January 2025 for the Networking sub-grant and 30th May 2025 for the International Matchmaking Mission sub-grant, contingent on budget availability and the volume of applications.

Eligibility Conditions:
Applicants must be SMEs located in Single Market Programme (SMP) associated countries, including EU Member States and other participating countries listed in the SMP Work Programme/COSME Strand. Eligible sectors include transport, mobility, construction, renewable energy, digital electronics, health, consumer goods, and industrial and food packaging, with a focus on polymer waste recycling solutions.

Don't miss this opportunity to advance your SME's internationalisation efforts in the field of polymer and elastomer recycling. Apply now and be part of a sustainable future!