eXtreme Challenge — Responsible Textiles
ADEME supports research projects, technical studies and local responsible-textile initiatives; selected studies and research can receive up to 50% of the costs allocated to them, while local projects can receive up to €10,000.
The Extreme Challenge for responsible textiles aims to reduce flows of clothing textiles while creating economic value and jobs locally. The ideation phase distinguishes technical studies and research work from local projects preparing a territorial trial.
Funded by ADEME
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Who can apply
Local authorities, chambers of commerce and trades, companies and start-ups, consultancies, universities, schools, researchers, social and solidarity economy organisations, and associations. The scheme is national, but only pre-selected applicants validated by ADEME can apply.
Eligibility conditions
The applicant must have been pre-selected and received ADEME’s Extreme Challenge winner validation. The project must help reduce flows of clothing textiles, develop knowledge or tools useful for the transition, or prepare a local circular economy trial.
What the scheme covers
Technical studies, research work and development of knowledge, content, tools or methods related to responsible clothing; local projects preparing a territorial trial planned for 2027.
Amount and funding terms
Two rules are published: selected technical studies and research work can be funded up to 50% of the costs allocated to the project; local projects receive a maximum of €10,000, paid to the lead organisation. The aid is reserved for pre-selected applicants who have received the winner validation letter.
How to apply
This scheme is not open to new applications: you must have received the winner validation letter after pre-selection. Winners must follow the 2026 Ideation specifications and sign an agreement with ADEME according to the timetable for their project category.
Timeline
Running from 12 June to 31 December 2026, but reserved for pre-selected applicants. Technical studies and research work can be contracted in 2026 or 2027 depending on timelines and budgets; local projects must be contracted in autumn 2026.
Key facts
- Funder
- ADEME
- Type of funding
- Grant
- Status
- Ongoing
- Maximum amount
- €10,000
- Automatically extracted — check the official source
- Funding rate
- 50%
- Automatically extracted — check the official source
- Geographic scope
- All of France
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum amount for a local project?
€10,000, paid to the lead organisation.
What rate can fund studies and research?
Up to 50% of the costs allocated to the project, for selected projects.
Can anyone apply?
No, the scheme is reserved for pre-selected applicants who have received the winner validation letter.
When will local projects be contracted?
In autumn 2026, to prepare a territorial trial in 2027.
Official source
Official ADEME page ↗(ademe_scraper)Applications are made from the official source (usually in French).
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