CASCADE aimed to enable SMEs in the digital service sector to pioneer IT-enabled circular economy solutions, spanning various business models like platform ventures, collaborative consumption, and product-as-a-service offerings. We aimed to raise awareness about the economic potential of circular economy principles within the digital landscape and dismantle barriers hindering the adoption of circular business models. It sought to ignite innovation in digital circular projects, fostering collaboration across sectors, regions, and even international borders. By engaging SMEs in hands-on circular projects, CASCADE aimed to facilitate the transition towards a more circular economy. To achieve these ambitious objectives, CASCADE developed an immersive 10-week training program tailored for digital service companies, equipping participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to successfully conceptualize and execute innovative digital circular projects.
We were driven by a firm conviction that the symbiosis of circular economy principles and digitalization is paramount for advancing sustainability goals. Recognizing the global and regional focus on sustainability, particularly within the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) frameworks and the EU's Circular Economy Action Plan, we aimed to empower SMEs and entrepreneurs to embrace circular practices through innovative digital solutions. Despite the plethora of available funding schemes and initiatives emphasizing SME involvement, a notable gap exists in equipping these entities with the requisite skills and resources to navigate the project development landscape effectively. CASCADE offers a tailored 10-week digital circular project incubator training program. This program provided participants with comprehensive guidance on the entire project life cycle, from ideation to successful funding application. CASCADE, therefore, represents an innovative approach tailored to meet the needs of digital economy stakeholders, fostering the development of CE projects and facilitating the mainstream adoption of circular practices.