The European project In Transit, of which CTA is part as a member of the consortium, has launched the second edition of the DEVELOP funding call, with a total fund of 1.5 million euros to support innovative SMEs in Europe. This initiative focuses on small and medium-sized enterprises leading sustainable solutions and circular business models, in order to strengthen competitiveness and sustainability in strategic sectors.

The DEVELOP call is designed for SMEs established or with branches in any of the 27 EU Member States, seeking to develop innovative projects focused on the circular economy. Prioritised sectors include textiles, aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and construction, where cross-sectoral solutions are needed to create cross-border value chains and maximise the resilience of these industries.

In Transit highlights the importance of incorporating circular and sustainable business models, enabling SMEs to seize new opportunities and consolidate their position in the global market. DEVELOP funding will cover up to €98,000 per consortium proposal and up to €49,000 per individual SME, focusing on technical demonstration projects and integration of advanced processes, innovative business models or cross-border value chains.

Application process and support for SMEs

The call will be open from 4 November until 16 January 2025, and interested companies can register via the form available on the official website (calls.intransitproject.eu). In addition, all detailed information and participation rules are available on the In Transit portal (intransitproject.eu/2nd-develop-call/).

With this call, In Transit aims to support 30 innovative projects, strengthening the competitiveness of European SMEs and boosting the transition towards more sustainable and digitised sectors.

About the project

In Transit is a European initiative that aims to boost the resilience of SMEs in the textile, aerospace, construction and advanced manufacturing sectors by providing a comprehensive support model that includes consultancy, financial assistance and coaching. Led by ATEVAL in Valencia, the consortium is composed of key partners such as AEI Tèxtils in Catalonia, CORALLIA in Greece, PRODUTECH in Portugal, Science Park Graz in Austria, TUS (IDEAM Cluster) in Ireland, POLIMI in Italy, IRTJV in France and CCS in Slovenia.

With a focus on strategic sectors and strong financial backing, In Transit positions itself as a key player in the transition towards a circular economy in Europe, consolidating the role of SMEs as drivers of innovation and sustainability.