HORIZON-CL4-2026-01-MATERIALS-PRODUCTION-04: Optimise the usage of resources in a circular economy (RIA) (Processes4Planet and Clean Steel partnerships):

1. Sectoral and Technical Contributions

IMMIB's member base is highly concentrated in energy-intensive industries such as steel, ferrous and non-ferrous metals (aluminium), minerals, and chemicals. This aligns directly with the call's focus on the Clean Steel and Processes4Planet partnerships, which aim to optimise the usage of resources in a circular economy.

IMMIB possesses demonstrated expertise in implementing Circular Economy principles, including Recycling and Reuse of Materials and Waste Management of metals and minerals. Furthermore, IMMIB actively maintains an R&D and Innovation Center for Steel, providing specialized services to a sector central to this call. IMMIB's previous participation in projects focusing on industrial symbiosis (e.g., CORALIS and polynSPIRE) demonstrates capability in defining business models for reuse of waste models and improving resource efficiency.

2. Exploitation and Market Uptake

As a core element of this Research and Innovation Action (RIA), proposals must include a credible business case and exploitation strategy for industrialisation. IMMIB specializes in these areas:

• Commercialization Acceleration: IMMIB can ensure maximum market penetration by developing exploitation strategies and promoting project results (including new low-CO2 processes or recovered materials) to its vast network of industry members.

• Dissemination Channels: IMMIB utilizes dedicated social media, business-to-business (B2B) events, and international fairs in Europe, the Middle East, and the USA to disseminate R&I results, accelerating the application of new solutions developed under the Processes4Planet and Clean Steel partnerships.

• SME Engagement: IMMIB's primary target group includes SMEs in energy-intensive sectors. Since a goal of the RIA is to accelerate the scale-up and adoption of technologies, IMMIB can mobilize SMEs through dedicated SME innovation support actions, mentorship, and networking.

3. Project Management and Coordination Support

Although this is an RIA, efficient project execution is critical, particularly given the large indicative budget of EUR 64.20 million and the expected funding of 9 projects. IMMIB can contribute reliable administrative support:

• Administrative Assistance: IMMIB has dedicated staff experienced in project management, willing to assist with administrative duties such as financial reporting, following deliverables and milestones, updating the Funding and Tenders Portal, and communicating with partners.

• Data and Research Coordination: IMMIB performs economic research and reporting on markets and international policies and collects data from the private sector to feed into the project's analysis and exploitation strategy.