Below, we will introduce how the EIC, by making the conditions of support more flexible, now makes it easier to develop circular economy solutions. We will also explain what can generally be supported under this support measure.

General information about the measure

This support supports the implementation of circular economy-based production and consumption models, such as sharing and repair services, industrial symbiosis and circular bioeconomy. It is financed from the European Union Cohesion Fund under the measure "Organizing the circular economy", which is part of the Operational Programme for the period 2021–2027.

The total budget of the support round is 2,000,000 euros, of which at least 800,000 euros will be allocated to projects outside Tallinn and Tartu.

The use of the budget also shows that as of 23 May 2025, 218,175 euros (approximately 10.9%) have been spent.

Updates to the conditions of support

On August 22, 2025, the Ministry of Climate made the conditions of support more flexible. Main changes:

• The share of support increased to **70%** of the project cost - this gives entrepreneurs a greater sense of financial security.
• The total cost of the project can range from 5,000 to 200,000 euros, depending on the activity.
• The budget of the support is the same, namely 2,000,000 euros, which is financed from the Cohesion Fund.
• Various institutions can apply for support: companies, local governments or their managed institutions, county development organizations, associations of municipalities, non-profit organizations and foundations.

Minister of Infrastructure Kuldar Leis emphasized that this change will help a wider range of entrepreneurs think creatively, create new solutions and thereby improve acceptability in the economy.

In press releases, the EIC and the Ministry of Climate have emphasized that the change supports innovation and resource saving. For example, Minister Kuldar Leis said: “The support will help bring circular economy-based innovation into the business model – extend the life of products, develop sharing and service solutions, valorize production residues ...“ This is based on the EIC strategy to contribute to circular economy operations and helps companies achieve greater environmental friendliness and added value.

This support is clearly aimed at those who want to develop circular economy-based business activities. Improved conditions – a higher support percentage and a more flexible cost limit – make the application more convenient and allow more stakeholders to participate. The most important thing to know is that this support will help create circular economy solutions and support both the environment and the efficiency of companies.