€5M–€7M For Sustainable Mining Innovation
Horizon Europe is funding new technologies for extracting critical raw materials from complex or hard-to-access deposits, including abandoned mines. 100% funding rate for research consortia.
About This Call
This Horizon Europe call funds the development of new sustainable technologies for mining complex or hard-to-access mineral deposits. It specifically targets critical raw materials — the metals and minerals essential for Europe's green and digital transition.
Projects should cover the full extraction chain: from exploration and mine planning to mineral processing and environmental remediation. Technologies for accessing abandoned mining sites and urban mines are also in scope. Deep sea mining is excluded.
In Scope
- New extraction technologies
- Complex mineral deposits
- Abandoned mining sites
- Safety & environmental impact
- Critical raw materials focus
- Digital mining solutions
Is This Grant For You?
You Qualify If
- Your consortium has 3+ partners from 3+ countries
- At least one partner is in an EU or Associated Country
- You develop technologies for mining critical raw materials
- Your technology is at TRL 3–5
- EU-based recycling industry plays a prominent role
Not For You If
- Your project is about deep sea mining
- Your consortium has fewer than 3 partners
- Your technology is already at commercial readiness
- Your entity is controlled by a non-eligible country
Frequently Asked
What is the funding model?
This is a lump sum grant — the budget is fixed at proposal stage. Research organisations get 100% funding.
What TRL is expected?
Starting TRL 3–5. The goal is to validate new extraction technologies, not deploy existing ones.
Is international cooperation encouraged?
Yes, especially with Ukraine. International partners can participate and be funded.
How many projects will be funded?
Approximately 3 projects from a total budget of €19M.
Check Your Eligibility
Fill out this form and we'll respond within 48 hours with an assessment.
Deadline:
April 21, 2026
€19M for critical raw materials extraction innovation.