EVEN-CLOSER is a European initiative driving critical raw materials recovery from e-waste. It aims to build a circular value chain for semiconductors by recovering and reusing critical raw materials from e-waste and industrial waste.

It is launching the European circular electronics kickstart acceleration programme, which will support startups developing breakthrough solutions for the electronics industry and looking for ways to accelerate their growth and amplify their impact. This programme will provide tailored coaching, assist with applying for EU funding, provide introductions to investors, run workshops and training sessions and generally provide support.

The organisers are calling for startups working on:

• Electronics recycling, recovery and remanufacturing.
• Innovative technologies for critical raw materials recovery.
• Photovoltaic recycling solutions and semiconductors extraction.
• Upscale electronics and semiconductors industry circularity and
• sustainability.
• Smart manufacturing of electronics and semiconductors.
• New technologies to improve industry’s productivity, efficiencies
• and competitiveness.

Apply by 29 May!

The project is also looking for experienced mentors to support innovative startups building Europe’s circular semiconductor future.

Apply by 29 May if you have expertise in: 

• Recycling, recovery and remanufacturing (including semiconductors and PV sectors) 
• Electronics value chain and circularity 
• Green chemistry and secondary raw materials integration in semiconductors and electronics production

The programme is free of charge and equity free. It will run from June to November 2026. It will be fully remote and in English.