Circular economy accelerator

Need: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) often struggle to transition to a circular economy due to a lack of necessary skills and resources. Currently, there is no quick and straightforward support service to help them develop sustainable business practices, innovate new circular economy solutions, or implement pilot projects.



Goals: The goal of the Circular Economy Accelerator project is to help SMEs transition more rapidly to a circular economy and promote sustainable development in the regions. The project leverages the expertise of LAB and Laurea universities of applied sciences in circular economy, digitalization, and business to support SMEs in their innovation efforts.



Actions: The project will develop a program that supports SMEs in their innovation processes and the creation of circular economy businesses. For three months, participating companies will receive support to carry out pilot projects and experiments, along with training in sustainability. The program will utilize the latest circular economy models, data, and digital solutions. Additionally, SMEs will receive guidance on understanding and complying with EU sustainability regulations.



Target Groups: The project primarily targets SMEs engaged in manufacturing in the Uusimaa and Päijät-Häme regions. Indirectly, it also benefits organizations promoting circular economy, research institutions, universities, cities, and municipalities.



Outcomes: The circular economy accelerator model developed during the project will be adopted by the two universities, ensuring ongoing support for SMEs even after the project ends. SMEs' capabilities in sustainability and meeting EU requirements will improve. The project will also foster new circular economy business innovations and strengthen regional collaboration networks.