The European Commission has officially launched the ‘Textiles of the Future’ partnership under the Horizon Europe programme, marking a significant investment in the EU’s textiles sector. Co-managed by the European Technology Platform for the Future of Textiles and Clothing (Textile ETP), this initiative aims to bolster innovation, sustainability, and global competitiveness within the industry.  

Aligned with the EU Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles, the partnership will focus on research and innovation projects that promote environmentally friendly, resource-efficient, and cost-competitive production practices. Key areas of interest include sustainable materials, clean processes, digital supply chains, and advanced manufacturing techniques.  

A memorandum of understanding between the European Commission and Textile ETP is set to formalise the partnership, with dedicated calls for proposals expected to launch under Horizon Europe’s Cluster 4 (which aims to enhance European capacity in key enabling technologies) between 2025 and 2027. These calls will prioritise projects that can rapidly deploy solutions at an industrial scale, particularly those involving small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).  

For more information, visit the EURATEX website.