The overall project scope was to empower young individuals, and more specifically HEI’s students, recent graduates, and potential startuppers with the necessary knowledge to develop and refine their strategies for creating circular businesses. Through RE-START, participants engaged in a practical programme focused on developing a circular business idea, which they intended to bring to fruition. By the end of the programme, participants were capable of producing a comprehensive circular business plan, enabling them to launch a circular startup or a spin-off. The general project’s objectives were: - Development of an innovative, cross-disciplinary programme tailored to meet labor market needs across diverse consortium nations. - Development of pedagogical practices and methodologies delivering transversal competences and sustainability mentality - Utilisation of adaptable, personalised learning methods alongside strategic utilisation of OERs and virtual platforms. - Preparation of HEIs students recent graduates, and potential startuppers to effectively commercialise their circular business concepts. - Engagement of participating students with global stakeholders, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Amidst escalating demand for sustainable businesses, the concept of the circular economy garners increasing recognition. While established firms express interest, startups with their pioneering spirit, lead the charge in adopting circular business models. Despite momentum, a gap persists in advancing circular business development. The consortium applied for this project with the aim to bridge this gap by creating a methodology for transitioning to a sustainable economic model through circular startups. RE-START empowered young entrepreneurs, promoted circular awareness, and fostered a robust ecosystem of sustainable businesses. The project’s objectives were to: -Bridge the gap between Higher Education and current labor market demands -Cultivate a culture of sustainability and eco-awareness among HEIs students & graduates -Empower HEIs students with essential circular economy strategies & skills to fuel circular entrepreneurship -Inspire HEIs students to collaborate with established circular startups and commercialise their business idea through the RE-START competition - Encourage HEIs students to spark creativity, embrace innovation, and cultivate transversal skills -Amplify economic growth and competitiveness throughout Europe