The EU Circular Economy Resource Centre (EU CERC) has opened applications for the 2026 Circular Business Awards, which celebrates innovative enterprises in ODA-eligible countries advancing sustainable production and circular economy models.
Focus
The 2026 edition spotlights two key categories: the Electronics & ICT Business Award and the Young Woman Entrepreneur Award.
Both categories aim to promote circular innovation that encourages resource efficiency, waste reduction and sustainable business practices.
The initiative supports enterprises developing practical solutions for a more sustainable global economy, particularly in developing regions.
Benefits
Each winner will receive a €10,000 support package, implemented through a personalised capacity-building plan developed with the EU CERC Business Lab.
This plan will guide how the funds are used over 12 months to strengthen business operations and expand market reach.
In addition, both winners will gain international visibility by presenting their work on the main stage of the World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF), attended by global industry and policy leaders.
Additional details
What’s more, winners will receive a fully funded trip to WCEF2026, covering visa, airfare, accommodation and daily allowances (up to €5,000).
They will also benefit from media coverage, professional networking sessions, and short video features that showcase their business innovations to an international audience.
Eligibility
The 2026 Awards are open to companies that:
● Are a micro, small or medium-sized enterprise (MSME) operating for at least three years
● Are registered in an ODA-recipient country listed on the official EU CERC website
● Use a circular business model focusing on:
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Circular design (reducing consumption before use)
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Optimal use (extending product life)
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Value recovery (repair, reuse, or recycling)
● Must comply with Enabel’s Decent Work Principles and ILO standards
● Must not engage in restricted activities such as weapons production, child labour or asbestos use
Award-specific requirements
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Electronics & ICT Business Award: For companies active in the electronics and ICT sector applying circular solutions.
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Young Woman Entrepreneur Award: For companies co-founded by a woman under 35 who remains actively involved in the business’s strategy and operations.
Deadline
The application ends on January 7, 2026. Click here to apply.
Discover more international business-focused awards on our Opportunities page
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