SMEs can submit applications until April 29, 2026.
On February 18, 2026, the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Industry, Climate Protection and Energy of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia (MWIKE) launched the third round of the "Circular Production NRW" (ZiPo.NRW) funding program. Within the framework of the ERDF/JTF program 2021–2027, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will receive support in developing circular prototypes for machinery, products, and production processes. Applications are open until 4:00 p.m. on April 29, 2026.
North Rhine-Westphalia is strongly characterized by medium-sized industrial companies that rely on technological innovations to compete globally. Against the backdrop of increasing demands for resource conservation and sustainability, circular value creation is gaining in importance. The goal is to further develop products and production processes so that they are durable, repairable, low in pollutants, and recyclable at the end of their life cycle.
Projects from companies headquartered or with a branch in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) that pursue innovative approaches along the industrial value chain are eligible for funding – for example, resource-efficient manufacturing methods, sustainable materials, or advanced recycling technologies. The use of artificial intelligence is also explicitly included among the supported key technologies. A total of €21 million in funding is available.
Source: www.ki.nrw
