One month ago, Capenergies participated in the official launch of the European RENEW-BOOSTER project, organised in Copenhagen.
RENEW-BOOSTER: supporting SMEs towards a more innovative and resilient renewable industry
In a context marked by supply chain tensions and increased international competition, the RENEW-BOOSTER project strengthens Europe's capacity for innovation and industrialisation. To this end, it mobilises a strategic network of clusters and experts specialising in renewable energies and the digital transition.
A EUROPE RESOLUTELY FOCUSED ON THE FUTURE OF ENERGY
RENEW-BOOSTER is fully in line with European and national priorities, consistent with the Net Zero Industry Act (NZIA), the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA) and the French strategy for Advanced Technologies for Energy Systems.
Through this strategic convergence, the project has a clear objective: to strengthen the competitiveness of the renewable energy, photovoltaic and offshore wind power industries by developing the skills of SMEs, which play an essential role in the energy transition and in consolidating the continent's industrial sovereignty.
Three key sectors are at the heart of the initiative:
- Photovoltaics (PV),
- Offshore wind power,
- Associated energy networks.
GIVE YOUR PROJECT A BOOST
At the heart of the project, RENEW-BOOSTER is setting up a comprehensive, tailor-made support system aimed at SMEs in the renewable energy sector. The ambition is to identify new industrial opportunities, develop innovative solutions and improve the strategic resilience of European companies.
The partners will offer targeted support through:
- Specialised training courses : targeted according to the needs of the sectors; ;
- Organisational innovations : to optimise companies' internal models; ;
- Privileged access to European networks : such as the Enterprise Europe Network or eDIHs; ;
- Connections: visits, events and transnational cooperation to strengthen industrial synergies.
DIRECT FINANCIAL SUPPORT: CASCADE FUNDING
One of the major advantages of RENEW-BOOSTER is its financing mechanism specifically designed for SME start-ups. Of a total budget of €2.7 million, at least 75% will be allocated directly to businesses. thanks to the cascade funding mechanism, offering accessible and immediate financial support.
Each SME will thus be able to benefit from support of up to €60,000, to accelerate the development of innovative solutions and strengthen its position in renewable value chains.
Three calls for projects will be launched to enable SMEs to join the programme:
- March 2026
- September 2026
- March 2027
Two complementary formats will be offered:
- Challenges (Open Innovation) : calls based on concrete issues identified by major players in the photovoltaic, offshore wind and smart grid sectors.
- Open Calls : the company itself proposes an innovation that meets its own needs.
CAPENERGIES' ROLE: SUPPORTING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF YOUR FUTURE PROJECT
As a partner in the project, Capenergies will play a key role in supporting French SMEs, with the aim of strengthening their digital and energy skills through workshops, diagnostics and tailored tools.
1) Participate in the SME needs assessment
A dedicated form will enable the identification of priorities, issues and challenges faced by companies in the project sectors (photovoltaics, offshore wind power, associated energy networks).
This information is essential for developing workshops, training courses and tools that are truly tailored to the needs on the ground.
2) Keep an eye out for upcoming calls for proposals.
They will offer the opportunity to benefit from financial support, personalised guidance and enhanced integration into European networks.
Get in touch now with the Capenergies project team, who will be able to guide you and inform you of the next steps.
