Application Deadline:
14 November 2025
About Organisation
The I3-4-BIOFERTILIZERS initiative is a Europe-driven collaborative effort aimed at advancing sustainable agriculture through innovation in the biofertilizer and biostimulant sector. Supported by a consortium of partners from multiple European countries, the project promotes a circular bioeconomy by helping startups and SMEs overcome technical and market barriers. Through financial support, advisory services, and capacity-building measures, it strengthens the transition from chemical fertilizers to eco-friendly alternatives. The initiative focuses on ecosystem mapping, investment case implementation, and interregional cooperation to boost regional leadership in biofertilizer solutions. By connecting innovators with tailored tools and expertise, the project creates an environment conducive to scaling production and commercialization efforts. It aligns with broader goals of fostering sustainability, reducing environmental impact, and improving soil fertility and crop productivity using organic, bio-based products. The organization places equal importance on collaboration, rigorous monitoring, and dissemination of results to ensure transparency and knowledge sharing. Startups and SMEs are supported with technical, business, and financial guidance while being encouraged to explore new avenues for innovation. The project embodies a forward-looking approach that combines scientific research, sustainable development, and community impact for the benefit of agricultural ecosystems and global food security.
About the Grant
The I3-4-BIOFERTILIZERS grant is designed to support innovative startups and SMEs working on biofertilizer and biostimulant solutions that contribute to sustainable agriculture. The grant operates through a cascade funding model, providing financial and advisory support to at least 30 selected organizations. The initiative focuses on scaling up biofertilizer production, promoting market uptake, and encouraging open innovation. It funds activities such as improving soil fertility, enhancing crop productivity, and developing novel bio-based products. Two strands guide the funding: one supports the deployment of existing biofertilizer cases, while the other promotes the development of new products and solutions. Projects may receive lump sum payments in Euros, with 50% paid upfront and the remainder upon successful completion and reporting. Eligible expenses include direct staff costs, external expertise, travel, and consumables, while equipment costs are excluded. Monitoring and reporting requirements ensure accountability, and organizations must maintain detailed records for auditing purposes. The initiative encourages collaboration, interdisciplinarity, and community involvement, fostering solutions that have measurable environmental benefits. With a project duration of up to 12 months, this grant presents a unique opportunity to scale innovations that support ecological balance and agricultural sustainability.
Who can Apply?
The I3-4-BIOFERTILIZERS grant is open to startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) legally registered in eligible European regions. Applicants must meet defined financial and language criteria and demonstrate the capacity to deliver biofertilizer or biostimulant solutions that align with sustainable agricultural practices. While there is no restriction on the applicants’ age, early-career entrepreneurs are encouraged to participate. Eligible entities include research-driven startups and SMEs engaged in developing organic fertilizers, microbial solutions, or other bio-based products aimed at improving soil and crop health. Collaboration with other stakeholders, such as private companies or innovation hubs, is encouraged, though the lead applicant must be a registered non-corporate entity. The grant scheme prioritizes projects that address critical market or technical challenges while promoting interregional cooperation. Proposals must outline how they will utilize the funding to scale operations, enhance technical expertise, or improve market access. Applications must include details of co-funding opportunities and operational budgets in case of partial funding. Ethical practices, gender inclusion, and stakeholder engagement are encouraged but not mandatory. Projects must be implemented within the specified timeframe and comply with rigorous reporting and monitoring requirements to ensure transparency and accountability.
How to Apply?
Applications must be submitted in English using the specified template with a maximum of 15 pages. Only one application per SME is allowed, either as a solo applicant or consortium partner. The proposal should clearly outline objectives, methods, expected outcomes, and budgets. All supporting documents must be included, and incomplete submissions will not be considered. Ethical conduct and proper documentation are required throughout the project.
Application Deadline
Applications must be submitted by November 14, 2025. Proposals received after this date will not be considered, and only complete submissions adhering to guidelines will move forward.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, visit grant website here
