Website Catholic Relief Services
Catholic Relief Services
Call for Applications: Circular Economy Challenge Fund (CECF)
Project: VOICES – Vitalizing Opportunities in Circular Economy and Sustainable Solutions
Organizations: Catholic Relief Services in partnership with Caritas Kigoma
Funded by: European Union
Project Background
The VOICES project is a 4-year initiative aimed at promoting circular economy practices around Lake Tanganyika. It focuses on:
- Resource conservation
- Waste reduction
- Energy efficiency through recycling, reuse, and remanufacturing
Impact Targets
- 119,160 direct beneficiaries by 2028
- Over 2 million indirect beneficiaries
- Special focus on youth and women
About the Circular Economy Challenge Fund (CECF)
The CECF provides:
- 💰 Financial support
- 🧠 Technical assistance
- 📊 Business Development Services (BDS)
It supports Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) operating in the circular economy to:
- Promote innovation
- Reduce environmental impact
- Create economic opportunities
Objectives of the Fund
- Promote circular economy practices such as:
- Plastic recycling
- Composting
- Briquette production
- Renewable resource use
- Strengthen MSMEs through technical, financial, and business support
- Encourage community participation and inclusive business models
- Align with SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
Purpose of the Call
This funding window targets:
- Start-up businesses
- Ideation-stage entrepreneurs and groups
Eligibility Criteria
1. Start-ups
- Operating for at least 1 year
- Demonstrated circular economy innovation
- Viable business plan with market demand
- Commitment to environmental conservation
- Women- or youth-led businesses preferred
2. Ideation Stage
- Individuals or groups with innovative circular economy ideas
- Potential for registration within 6–12 months
- Willingness to undergo training
- Commitment to sustainability and inclusivity
What Successful Applicants Receive
- 💰 Performance-based grants:
- Up to €30,000 (Start-ups)
- Up to €10,000 (Ideation stage)
- 📈 Technical support and Business Development Services (BDS)
Key Timeline
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Launch of Call | 25 March 2026 |
| Submission Deadline | 15 April 2026 (23:59 EAT) |
| Review & Selection | 16 April – 30 May 2026 |
Application Process
- Request application forms via:
- 📧 Email: simon.mwanjela@crs.org
- 📞 Phone: +255 757 803 680
- 📍 Visit CRS Kigoma Office (3rd Floor, NSSF Building)
- Submit completed application to:
📧 voices.cecf@crs.org
Important Notes
- Only complete applications meeting eligibility criteria will be considered
- ❌ No application fee required
- ❌ CRS will not cover application-related costs
- Submission does not guarantee funding
- CRS reserves the right to accept or reject applications
Additional Information
Applicants are encouraged to review all supporting documents and guidelines provided by Catholic Relief Services for detailed requirements and specifications.
To apply for this job email your details to voices.cecf@crs.org