Deadline: 06-Apr-2026
Entrepreneurship Support Organisations (ESOs) in Bengaluru can now participate in the Circular Economy Innovation Cluster (CEIC) programme, integrating circular economy and social impact into their operations. The initiative includes masterclasses from April to July 2026, followed by grant opportunities up to €50,000 to implement ESG-focused entrepreneurship programmes.
What is the Circular Economy Innovation Cluster (CEIC)?
The CEIC is a multi-year programme led by Climate KIC in collaboration with SecondMuse (Bengaluru, India) and GrowthAfrica (Nairobi, Kenya), funded by the IKEA Foundation.
It is designed to help ESOs embed circular economy principles and social impact into their entrepreneurship support activities, focusing on:
- Circular economy and sustainable business practices
- Climate innovation and green solutions
- Gender balance and equitable leadership
- Strategic integration of sustainability into entrepreneurial support programmes
The programme builds on lessons from three years of supporting circular ventures (2023–2025) and Climate KIC’s technical expertise.
Who Can Participate?
Eligibility Criteria:
- Organisations supporting entrepreneurs through incubators, accelerators, or entrepreneurship programmes
- Both for-profit and non-profit entities are eligible
- No prior experience in circular economy programmes is required
- Must demonstrate strong motivation for climate innovation, social impact, and circular economy
- Gender-balanced teams and leadership structures are preferred
- Clear strategic vision for integrating sustainability and circular economy principles
Key Notes: The programme encourages collaboration, particularly between two or more ESOs forming consortia.
Programme Structure
Masterclasses (April – July 2026):
- Interactive sessions to learn circular economy principles
- Tools and resources to embed social impact in entrepreneurship programmes
- Networking opportunities to form partnerships and consortia
- Guidance on grant proposal development for post-masterclass implementation
Grant Opportunity:
- Up to €50,000 per organisation or consortium
- Funds to design and implement dedicated entrepreneurship programmes focused on circular economy and social impact
- Preference given to collaborative proposals
Why It Matters
- Supports ESOs in transitioning to sustainable and socially impactful models
- Strengthens the ecosystem for climate-positive entrepreneurship
- Encourages collaboration and shared learning between organisations
- Promotes gender-balanced leadership and inclusive decision-making
- Provides funding and technical guidance to turn innovative ideas into actionable programmes
How to Apply
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Check Eligibility: Confirm your organisation actively supports entrepreneurs and meets gender and leadership preferences.
- Register for Masterclasses: Apply for the Circular Economy & Social Impact Masterclasses running April–July 2026.
- Participate and Network: Engage in training, workshops, and networking sessions to develop circular economy capabilities.
- Form Partnerships: Collaborate with other ESOs to submit consortium proposals (optional but preferred).
- Submit Grant Proposal: Apply for up to €50,000 to implement your circular economy-focused entrepreneurship programme.
- Receive Funding and Implement: Selected organisations receive grants and support to execute their programmes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not demonstrating commitment to circular economy or social impact principles
- Submitting proposals without a clear strategic vision or implementation plan
- Ignoring the benefit of consortia and collaboration
- Failing to maintain gender balance in teams or leadership structures
- Missing masterclass participation, which is crucial for grant eligibility
FAQ
1. Who can apply for this programme?
Entrepreneurship Support Organisations (ESOs) in Bengaluru, India, including both for-profit and non-profit entities supporting entrepreneurs.
2. Is prior experience in circular economy required?
No, but motivation and commitment to circular economy, social impact, and climate innovation are essential.
3. What is the timeline for the masterclasses?
Late April to July 2026.
4. How much funding is available?
Up to €50,000 per organisation or consortium for programme implementation.
5. Are collaborations encouraged?
Yes, consortia of two or more ESOs are preferred and may receive priority during grant selection.
6. Will gender balance be considered?
Yes, gender-balanced teams and leadership structures are prioritized.
7. What is the main goal of the programme?
To integrate circular economy, social impact, and sustainability principles into entrepreneurial support programmes, building a stronger ecosystem for climate-positive entrepreneurship.
Conclusion
The CEIC Circular Economy & Social Impact programme offers ESOs in Bengaluru a unique opportunity to advance sustainability, social impact, and circular economy principles within their operations. By participating in masterclasses and applying for grant funding, organisations can strengthen their programmes, form meaningful partnerships, and create lasting impact for entrepreneurs and communities alike.
For more information, visit Climate KIC.
