The Dutch Research Council (NWO) and the São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP) have issued a call for research proposals under the Integrated Biorefineries for a Circular Future programme. The proposals should focus on identifying circular biobased alternatives to fossil raw materials in the chemical industry.

A total of EUR 3.84 million is available for public-private research consortia. The call focuses on joint research between researchers, companies and societal organisations from the Netherlands and the Brazilian federal state of São Paulo.

The transition within the chemical industry from fossil raw materials to biobased materials involves technical, social, economic and legal changes. NWO is working with FAPESP to connect up researchers, industry, agricultural companies and social partners with a view to finding solutions. The research should include multiple perspectives on biorefineries, such as chemical engineering, (business-)economics, sustainability/environment, social and legal aspects. 

The research focuses on two key sub-topics:

• bio-based raw materials;
• conversion processes.

Mandatory letters of intent must be submitted by 14:00:00 CEST on 23 June 2026.

The full application must be submitted by 14:00:00 CEST on 20 October 2026.

You can find all the details here.