The circular economy approach – one in which resources are reduced, reused, and repurposed instead of wasted – offers solutions to many of the challenges posed by production and consumption, while still allowing for economic growth.
Sustainability entrepreneurs have a key role to play (as we all do) in making circularity our new reality. We need innovative ideas for high-quality and accessible products and services that don't create waste. We support ventures that are scaling enterprising initiatives to drive sustainable consumption and production across fashion, food, technology, and more. Our programmes help these startups grow, and our events and publications help boost knowledge and connections within this key ecosystem.
There are a wide range of opportunities for positive change through innovation in the field of Circular Economy. At Impact Hub Berlin, we identified four areas with huge potential for new game-changing solutions.
Cutting the environmental impacts of the clothing industry
Reducing electronic waste and building longer-lasting consumer electronics
Cutting the environmental impacts of the construction industry
Creating packaging solutions that are environmentally friendly
Circular Together is a 6 months incubator that supports early stage Circular Economy startups. The program is funded by the Berliner Startup Stipendium and aims to prepare the startups for partner/investor readiness.
We actively organize matchmaking formats in the community, whether between co-founders, startups, investors, or corporations. We also organize an annual roundtable with key corporates active in the ecosystem.
We take knowledge-sharing seriously and facilitate it through our monthly event series. Events can include everything from expert lectures and panel discussions to larger formats like hackathons.
To identify main trends and opportunities within each ecosystem, we conduct qualitative research which results in regular reports.
Our brand-new spotlight delves into the retail industry and discusses its innovation potential within the Circular Economy. Check out in-depth case studies from startup partnerships with Miele and Zalando, trends and statistics, how to run a circular experiment at scale and an exploration of CRCLR House — Impact Hub Berlin’s circular space. Download Now.
Looking to support impact ventures and curious about how we can help?
Read moreAs of June 2022, Miele became a Circular Economy Ecosystem partner to develop innovative solutions for individuals and the environment. Miele and us are learning from each other and promoting innovative startups and projects. As Richard Green, Miele's VP Brand and content, puts it:
"As a global brand, we believe that innovation and collaboration will need to go hand in hand to create a more sustainable world. When Impact Hub Berlin approached us about joining their program, we saw this as the perfect opportunity to work with entrepreneurs on their vision for the future. At Miele, we have long focused on longevity and the idea of "Immer Besser" - constant improvement. We think our company’s commitment to this topic, combined with the innovative Impact Hub Berlin mindset, can and will unlock ideas and solutions that will make a difference in the world."