CIRCULAR REPUBLIC, together with Knorr-Bremse and the Heinz Hermann Thiele Familienstiftung, has launched a new edition of the Circular Technology Award. This international call aims to identify and accelerate technological solutions that strengthen circularity in industrial environments.
The Knorr-Bremse Circular Technology Award is aimed at technologies that enable material loops to be closed within advanced industrial sectors. The call focuses particularly on two major challenges:
- Automated disassembly of complex industrial components, facilitating their reuse or recycling.
- Recovery of critical raw materials from complex material mixtures.
Selected initiatives may receive cash prizes — up to €25,000 per winner — as well as the opportunity to develop a pilot project or proof of concept with industrial support, with additional funding of up to €150,000.
Who it is for
The call targets:
- Technology startups
- Innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
- Teams with solutions already developed or at an advanced stage
Applicants must be legally established entities and demonstrate scalability potential and industrial impact.
Why it matters
The recovery of critical raw materials and the improvement of recyclability for industrial components are strategic priorities in Europe. Reducing dependency on external resources and increasing material efficiency are key steps towards achieving a truly circular economy.
This award connects technological innovation with real industrial capacity, offering start-ups a direct pathway to validate their technology within a leading corporate environment. Finalists will also gain international visibility and access to a strategic network of industrial and financial stakeholders.
Key deadlines
- Application deadline: 2 March 2026
- Announcement of finalists: 15 April 2026
- Submission of finalist video pitch: before 24 April 2026
- Announcement of winners: late April 2026
- Awards ceremony: 6 May 2026, at IFAT
Prizes and support offered
- Cash prize: up to €25,000 for each main winner.
- Development support: opportunity to carry out a proof-of-concept project with funding of up to €150,000 in collaboration with industrial partners.
- International visibility and collaboration opportunities with key sector stakeholders.
How to apply
Applications must be submitted through the official call form, including detailed information on the technology, its maturity level and its market potential.
The process includes:
- Initial evaluation of applications.
- Selection of finalists.
- Jury presentation and award ceremony at an international event.
Interested companies should carefully review the technical requirements and prepare a strong dossier demonstrating innovation, feasibility and impact potential.