The ForestPathways call has been launched by the European Partnership FOrests, forestry, and the forest-based sector: REsearch and innovation for a Sustainable Transition (FOREST). 

It supports transnational research and innovation activities from fundamental to applied research and, where appropriate, demonstration activities. Projects are expected to generate new knowledge, develop practical solutions and contribute to implementation in policy, management or industry contexts, while considering the diversity of forests and the forest-based sector.

There are four topics for this call; topic 3 focuses on sustainable wood-based products and systems as an alternative to fossil fuel-based ones. Relevant areas include circular and resource-efficient use of wood-based products and innovative use of underutilised softwood and hardwood species.

Topic 4 supports research and innovation supporting the transition towards a sustainable and circular forest-based bioeconomy.

Cross-cutting themes include forest-based value chains, innovative business models, barriers to market uptake, circularity and efficient resource use, and workforce development.

Proposals will be screened first and only those projects accepted may submit full proposals. 

EUR 40 million is available, and the projects should run for 3 years.

There are two cut-off dates: 2 December 2026 and 2 June 2027. Successful projects are expected to start in the first half of 2028.

See the call documents and the EU funding portal.