Deadline Date: September 16, 2026
The European Commission is seeking grant applications to support research, pilot, and demonstration activities that advance sustainable, low-carbon steel technologies and their transition to commercial use.
The focus areas, of this call include low-carbon steelmaking, sustainable steel production processes, advanced steel grades and applications, circular economy, resource conservation, environmental protection, improved working conditions, workforce management, pilot installations, and industrial-scale demonstration projects.
This call under the RFCS programme supports pilot and demonstration projects in the steel sector designed to bridge the gap between research, innovation, and commercial deployment. It focuses on developing sustainable and low-carbon steelmaking and finishing processes, advancing steel applications, and improving environmental and resource efficiency.
The programme also supports initiatives that strengthen circular economy practices, enhance protection of the environment, and improve workforce management and working conditions within the steel industry. Projects are expected to contribute to industrial transformation and sustainability in the sector.
Pilot projects involve the development and operation of installations at an appropriate scale, while demonstration projects focus on industrial-scale systems. All projects should progress from technology readiness levels 4–5 at the start to levels 7–8 by completion, supporting closer-to-market innovation.
The estimated budget for this call is EUR 40 million. Eligible applicants include legal entities such as companies, public bodies, research organisations, and educational institutions established in EU Member States, overseas territories, or associated non-EU countries participating in the RFCS programme.
For more information, visit European Commission.
