Call for proposals to develop the Raw and Circular Economy Expedition (RACE) for Executives program

EIT RawMaterials has launched a call for proposals to develop the Raw and Circular Economy Expedition (RACE) for Executives program. This call invites consortia from academia, industry, and research organizations to propose a program that provides a high-level learning experience for senior leaders, executives, entrepreneurs, and experts in raw materials and related industries. The RACE for Executives will deliver an in-depth understanding of the latest developments, challenges, and innovations along the raw materials value chain through a series of organized visits to state-of-the-art facilities and innovation labs around the world. 

The program aims to address key challenges and opportunities in the raw materials sector, focusing on areas such as sustainability, digital transformation, and the circular economy. Participants will engage in immersive learning experiences, including lectures, workshops, and study visits hosted by industry partners. The program will involve:

• Visits to leading companies and innovation hubs across the globe.
• Networking opportunities with key stakeholders in the raw materials sector.
• A holistic understanding of the entire raw materials value chain, from exploration and mining to recycling and waste valorization.
• Direct exposure to best practices and cutting-edge technologies.
• A comprehensive view of how global trends and policies impact the raw materials sector, including circular economy models. 
   

The RACE for Executives will be a modular program, allowing participants to join one or more study visits, depending on their interests and schedules. The program will also include:

• Pre-tour webinars to introduce participants to the topics and locations of each visit.
• Post-tour workshops to encourage innovation and collaboration among participants.
• Networking events to facilitate connections with industry leaders, researchers, and potential business partners.

The visits will focus on different stages of the raw materials value chain, with example itineraries covering:

1. Exploration, Mining, and Mineral Processing – Basics of geology, ore deposits, and sustainable sourcing of critical materials. 
2. Metals Processing – Exploring greener processes in metals production. 
3. Material Recovery – Valorization of waste materials and ecosystem engagement. 
4. Entrepreneurship in Raw Materials – Visits to venture capital firms and startups in the sector. 
    

Participants will gain:

• A deep understanding of the latest research and innovation trends in raw materials.
• Insights into market opportunities and best practices along the raw materials value chain.
• Exposure to global perspectives on critical materials and how to strengthen competitiveness.
• Opportunities for ongoing collaboration with EIT RawMaterials and its partners. 
   

The project will be implemented in two phases, with this call focused on Phase 1 (12 months). This phase involves the ideation, development, and execution of the first RACE for Executives program. Key deliverables for Phase 1 include:

• Full development of the program itinerary, including content creation, logistical planning, and recruitment of participants.
• Execution of the first RACE for Executives program, including the organization of study visits and events.
• Commercial targets: The project should generate at least €10,000 in revenue and attract a minimum of 30 participants by the end of Phase 1.
• Development of a blueprint for future iterations of the RACE for Executives, to be used by EIT RawMaterials for continuous program implementation (Phase 2 and onwards). 
   

• Funding of up to €500,000 is available for the selected consortium. Funding will be provided on a costs-incurred basis, with 75% disbursed upon signing the project agreement and the remaining 25% upon completion of the final report.
• Proposals should include a financial plan, including participant fees and pricing models, to ensure the program becomes financially sustainable and generates long-term revenue. 
   

Proposals should detail:

• A comprehensive project plan outlining the structure, content, and expected outcomes of the program.
• Market research to assess the needs of the target audience and competitors.
• Entrepreneurial education components, including strategies for supporting startups and innovation within the raw materials sector.
• A marketing and communications strategy to attract participants and ensure the program’s success.
• Quality assurance frameworks to assess participant feedback and continually improve the program.
• A strategy for applying for the EIT Short Course Label, which recognizes high-quality education programs in the raw materials sector. 
   

Proposals will be evaluated on the following criteria:

1. Excellence and Quality of the Consortium: Demonstrated experience in developing and executing complex events, with subject matter expertise in raw materials and industry challenges. 
2. Impact and Scope: The program’s potential to address industry needs and contribute to innovation in the raw materials sector. 
3. Project Management: A detailed plan for implementing the program, including budgets, timelines, and risk management.
4. Implementation: The feasibility of delivering the first RACE for Executives within the 12-month funding period and the potential for future iterations. 
5. Financial Sustainability: A strong financial plan to ensure the program’s long-term success and ability to generate revenue. 
6. Marketing and Communications: A robust strategy to promote the program and attract participants. 
    

• Call launch: 7 October 2024 
• Application Start Date: 14 October 2024
• Proposal submission deadline: 9 December 2024 
• Evaluation period: 9 – 13 December, 2024 
• Project start date: 20 January 2025

This call offers an opportunity for consortia to develop a unique educational experience that enhances the knowledge and networks of senior leaders in the raw materials sector while contributing to the financial sustainability of EIT RawMaterials. 

• Raw and Circular Economy Expedition (RACE) for Executives Call Guidelines
• Application Guidance and Template

About EIT RawMaterials

Minerals, metals, and advanced materials are key enablers to achieve the objectives of the European Green Deal. Today, only a fraction of the most relevant raw materials is produced in Europe. This can be changed through a circular economy approach, through innovation in recycling, substitution, processing, mining, and exploration. The objective of EIT RawMaterials is to secure a sustainable raw materials supply by driving innovation, education, and entrepreneurship across European industrial ecosystems.

EIT RawMaterials, initiated and funded by the EIT, a body of the European Union, is an Innovation Community which provides a collaborative environment for disruptive and breakthrough innovations by connecting business with academia, research, and investment. It also invests in future generations of innovators for the raw materials sector through initiatives ranging from education of school students to higher qualifications for industry professionals, through the EIT RawMaterials Academy.

About EIT RawMaterials Academy

EIT RawMaterials Academy is the overarching brand of all the education activities of EIT RawMaterials. These range from innovative education projects launched via calls and run by the Innovation Community’s partners to a number of centrally operated projects. Activities across the entire ecosystem of learners – PhD students, Masters’ students, industrial partners, professionals within the raw materials sector, and wider society – foster new ways of learning and teaching by connecting academia, industry, and research organisations.