The concept of the circular economy challenges the linear “take-make-dispose” approach by promoting resource efficiency, waste reduction, and the development of circular business models. START-ups, characterized by their flexibility and innovation, are uniquely positioned to embrace circular principles and drive sustainable entrepreneurship.

The RE – START project recognizes the potential of START-ups in advancing the circular economy and focuses on developing a comprehensive training program. This program aims to instill an entrepreneurial mindset while integrating circular economy principles and competences among HEIs students.

The project empowers students by fostering an entrepreneurial mindset that embraces creativity, problem-solving, and opportunity identification within the circular economy context. By providing the necessary knowledge and skills, the project aims to inspire and equip future entrepreneurs with the tools needed to drive circular innovation. The MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) platform, a key component of the project, has been finalized to further reinforce the circular economy principles within START-ups. The MOOC platform  hosts training materials, including video interviews with industry experts, providing in-depth insights into circular strategies and their practical applications. Training modules also include Introduction to circular economy, Circularity and Entrepreneurship, the regenerative business model, Innovation and circular startups, Marketing and commercialization of a circular startup, Green Collaborations, Funding opportunities for a circular business. Additionally, the MOOC platform supports the translation of these videos and interviews into partner languages, ensuring accessibility. 

The integration of the circular economy model in START-up practices holds immense potential for sustainable entrepreneurship. By adopting circular strategies, START-ups can drive economic growth while minimizing environmental impact. The MOOC platform, with its training materials, video interviews, and translations, will play a pivotal role in disseminating knowledge and empowering START-ups to embrace circularity. Through collective efforts, START-ups can reinforce the circular economy model and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future.