Eureka Lightweighting Funding Call

The ELN supports the development of the first multinational funding call dedicated solely to lightweighting technologies. The first call took place in 2023, followed by the second one in 2024. For 2025, the third call is currently under development.

Scope

Lightweighting technology is the key enabling technology to reduce weight, save materials and increase recycling while the functionality remains or is improved. Smart lightweight design, bio-based raw materials, reuse, remanufacturing and recycled material streams are crucial parameters. Digital solutions for calculation models, production processes and the like are key tools for driving the success of lightweight innovation. Lightweighting technology provides environmental-friendly solutions, while at the same time adding commercial value across all industries.

Effects targeted by lightweighting technologies:

  • Optimisation of resource and energy efficiency
  • Creation of sustainable value circles
  • Bolster lightweight integration in more areas

Relevant industry sectors include (but are not limited to): Regardless of the focus of national priorities in the call participation, all sectors with a need for lightweighting technologies are welcome, e.g., automotive, railway, aerospace, space, maritime, mechanical engineering, energy, construction, infrastructure, health, farming, forestry, etc.

Call relevant lightweighting technologies to be researched and developed include (but are not limited to):

  • Optimisation of lightweight design approaches
  • Novel lightweight materials including optimised manufacturing
  • Recycling of lightweight material
  • Joining technology
  • Additive manufacturing
  • Digitalisation
  • Life cycle assessment / circular economy

2024

In 2024, a total of 29 projects were submitted for a total volume of EUR 51,7 Mio. This is a great success for the Lightweighting community. The national funding bodies (NFB) from Austria, Belgium (Flanders & Wallonia), Canada, Chile, Estonia, France, Germany, Israel, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Poland, Portugal, South Korea, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland, and Türkiye cooperated in supporting organisations collaborating on international R&D projects in the field of lightweighting. These should be collaborative research and innovation projects, resulting in innovative and marketable solutions.

https://eurekanetwork.org/opencalls/network-projects-lightweighting-2024/