CFPs: Implementation of Demonstration Projects introducing Sustainable and Circular Packaging Innovations (Armenia)

Objectives

• The objective of the Call for the Development and Implementation of Demonstration Projects is to select innovative, practical, and scalable demonstration projects that offer sustainable, environmentally responsible, and climate-resilient solutions in sustainable packaging within food-related sectors, particularly in the topics of fruits, berries and nuts. The project implementation is to solely be applied to Armenia. Projects should aim to reduce environmental pollution, support substitution of conventional plastic with recyclable or agro-waste-based alternatives, and improve Armenia’s readiness for sustainable trade and resource-efficient production. These projects should be grounded in the 3R or 5R principles (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and where applicable, Refuse and Recover), fostering a strong culture of waste prevention and circularity. Project proposals should clearly show the link between sustainable packaging and the food industry, such as reduced GHG emissions, and/or better opportunities for export of the respective agricultural products and food. Project proposals incorporating digital tools or digitalization components to enhance effectiveness, monitoring, or scalability will be considered a strong advantage.

Funding Information

• Applicants may request funding between EUR 5,000 – EUR 25,000 (in AMD equivalent). Each applicant must contribute at least 10% of the total project budget through co-financing (cash or in-kind). Applicants should be committed to ensuring that the equipment provided will support farmers and agribusinesses. Public benefits should be guaranteed. The applicants will share their experience with relevant beneficiaries, organize trainings, and possibly share sustainable practices and benefits with the general public.
• Each project must be implemented within a maximum of 24 months, concluding by November 2027.

Priority Areas

• Proposals must explicitly address one or more of the following packaging-related topics:
  • Development of biodegradable, compostable, or agro-waste-based packaging formats;
  • Replacement of plastic or multilayer packaging with recyclable paper/cardboard solutions;
  • Digital tools for packaging lifecycle tracking, traceability, or consumer engagement;
  • Reusable or modular packaging formats suitable for small producers;
  • Improving market access and export readiness while complying with food safety and EU standards.
  • Project Duration and Budget

Expected Results

• Expected results include:
  • Use of recyclable, biodegradable, or agro-waste-based packaging alternatives;
  • Enhanced awareness and capacity among producers and processors;
  • Minimum 10% co-financing from applicants (cash or in-kind);
  • Projects grounded in the 3R or 5R principles (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Refuse, Recover).

Eligibility Criteria

• Eligible applicants include registered businesses, CSOs, research institutions, social enterprises, and consortia legally operating in Armenia with activities related to agriculture, agri-food processing, recycling, packaging, and circular economy solutions.
• Eligible applicants must:
  • Be legally registered in Armenia;
  • Operate in sectors related to agriculture, agri-processing, or sustainable packaging;
  • Propose projects focused on circular, resource-efficient, or agro-waste packaging solutions;
  • Provide at least 10-30% co-financing (cash and/or in-kind).

For more information, visit REC Caucasus Armenia.