The TRACE project is proud to announce the launch of its third—and final—Open Call for SMEs Support, aimed at empowering tourism and culture small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the European Union. This initiative offers a unique opportunity for up to 16 SMEs from Belgium, Spain, Romania, Italy, and Cyprus to access specialized training, consultancy, and financial support to develop circular business strategies and achieve environmental certification.
Empowering Sustainable Transformation
Under the TRACE Support Programme, selected SMEs will benefit from a comprehensive package that includes:
- Direct Funding: Grants of up to €7,200 to cover consultancy, training, travel, and certification costs.
- Tailored Capacity Building: Targeted training and specialized consultancy services designed to enhance sustainability performance, integrate circular economy practices, and support the application for certifications such as the EU Ecolabel or EMAS.
- Expert Guidance and Networking: High-level webinars and access to an international network of business and finance partners, fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration across borders.
Programme Phases
The support provided under TRACE is structured in interconnected phases:
- Phase 1: Capacity Building Support
- Phase 2: Assess & Recommend
- Phase 3: Circular Business Direct Support
- Phase 4: Financial Support
Through this structured approach, TRACE aims to transform selected SMEs into champions of sustainability, inspiring wider adoption of circular and sustainable practices within their local communities and beyond.
About TRACE
Coordinated by the CNR ISPC (Institute of Heritage Science), TRACE is a collaborative project co-funded by the European Commission under Grant Agreement No. 101085893, as part of the Single Market Programme (SMP/SME Pillar). The initiative brings together a consortium of partners including ICHEC Brussels Management School, Iniziativa Cube S.r.l., North-East Romania Development Agency, Larnaca and Famagusta Districts Development Agency, APT Basilicata Territorial Promotion Agency, and the Provincial Government of Teruel.
Application Details
- Application Period: February 20 – March 20, 2025
- Deadline: March 20, 2025, at 17:00 CET
Interested tourism and culture SMEs are invited to apply and become pioneers in circular and cultural tourism within the EU. For more details and to submit your application, please visit the TRACE Open Call page at https://www.ispc.cnr.it/en/2025/02/19/the-3rd-call-for-smes-support-by-trace/.
For further information, please contact:
Email: support@iniziativa.cc
