Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking
(CBE JU)
The Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU) is a €2 billion public-private partnership under Horizon Europe. Its objective is to accelerate the transition towards a competitive, circular and sustainable bio-based economy in Europe.
CBE JU supports collaborative research and innovation projects that transform biological resources into sustainable products and materials, while strengthening European industrial value chains.
For companies, research organisations and public entities active in bio-based industries, CBE JU represents one of the main European funding instruments in this field.
Zabala Innovation has achieved a 45% success rate in CBE JU (5 out of 11 proposals funded).
CBE JU is a Horizon Europe institutionalised partnership between the European Union and the Bio-based Industries Consortium (BIC).
It builds on the former Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking (BBI JU) and aims to:
The programme funds projects across the entire innovation chain, from research and demonstration to flagship and first-of-a-kind industrial deployment.
Each year, CBE JU publishes annual work programmes detailing:
– Priority topics
– Funding instruments
– Eligibility conditions
– Budget allocation
– Submission deadlines
Deadlines are usually concentrated between spring and autumn, depending on the annual work programme.
Calls typically include different types of actions.
CBE JU calls are open to:
Projects must be collaborative and involve partners from different EU Member States or Associated Countries, in line with Horizon Europe participation rules.
Projects are expected to demonstrate clear environmental and socio-economic impact aligned with the EU Green Deal and Bioeconomy Strategy.
Identification and strategic positioning
We analyse annual work programmes and help organisations position their innovation strategy within CBE JU priorities.
Consortium building
We support partner search and the structuring of strong, balanced and competitive consortia across Europe.
Proposal development
We provide technical drafting support, impact strategy design and financial modelling aligned with CBE JU evaluation criteria.
Budget optimisation
We design robust cost structures adapted to the specific funding rates and financial rules of CBE JU.
Grant Agreement preparation
We assist beneficiaries during negotiation and Grant Agreement signature.
Project management and reporting
We support administrative, financial and compliance management throughout project implementation.
What is the difference between CBE JU and Horizon Europe?
CBE JU is an institutionalised partnership under Horizon Europe. While it follows Horizon Europe rules, it has its own dedicated budget, governance structure and sectoral focus on bio-based industries.
When are CBE JU deadlines?
Deadlines are defined annually in the CBE JU work programme. Most calls close between April and September, although this may vary each year.
What funding rate does CBE JU provide?
Funding rates depend on the type of action (RIA, IA, CSA). As in Horizon Europe, research actions may reach up to 100% funding, while innovation actions typically fund a lower percentage for for-profit entities.
Are SMEs encouraged to participate?
Yes. SMEs are strongly encouraged to participate in CBE JU projects, particularly in innovation and flagship actions linked to industrial deployment.
What makes a competitive CBE JU proposal?
Successful proposals typically demonstrate:
Early strategic alignment with the work programme priorities is essential.
Why CBE JU is strategically relevant
CBE JU plays a central role in the implementation of European policies such as:
For organisations active in sustainable materials, chemicals, agri-food, forestry or industrial biotechnology, CBE JU is a key funding instrument to:
