Improve the framework conditions for innovation in the Alpine space
Objective of the practice:
Improve the framework conditions for innovation in the Alpine space
Subtopics of the practice:
SMEs eco-design and innovative business models, value-chain and clusters according to Smart Specialisation Strategies (S3) and the EUSALP strategic sectors; policy makers (integrate circular economy into innovation policies for SMEs and 2020+ Programme).
Geographical scope of the practice:
Alpine Regions
Short summary of the practice:
The main objective of the CIRCULAR4.0 project is to strengthen digitalisation processes by SMEs to foster innovation processes and accelerate the transition to the circular economy in Alpine Space.
Detailed information on the practice:
The primary goal of the CIRCULAR4.0 practice is to integrate the EU Circular Economy Action Plan with specific actions for the Alpine Space, focusing on SMEs by promoting eco-design and innovative business models. It aims to strengthen value chains and clusters in line with S3 and the EUSALP strategic sectors, while supporting policymakers in integrating circular economy principles into innovation policies and future programs for SMEs. The idea for this practice originated from the recognition that new technologies can be utilised for the creation of innovative circular economy business models aimed at contributing to a more sustainable future. The project originated from the need to answer the question of how such a transformation could be effectively carried out. Since the project’s implementation, it has successfully brought together representatives from the innovation ecosystem, including policymakers, stakeholders, academia, research institutions, intermediary organisations, entrepreneurs, and citizens. These groups have collaborated to focus on the digitalization of SMEs. As a result, the project has contributed to making the Alpine area a cleaner and greener environment, improving innovation, and encouraging the development of new business opportunities. The practice contributes to long-term sustainability by using digital technologies to accelerate the transition of SMEs to the circular economy in the Alpine Space. Through pilot actions, each CIRCULAR4.0 partner developed tools that help SMEs integrate circular practices. By supporting a selected group of SMEs, the project identified the most successful cases, and assessed their approach to circular economy and to digital technologies.
Resources needed:
Total eligible costs: 2.560.693€; ERDF grants: 2.176.589€
Results achieved:
A modular training course as a tool for SMEs to be delivered by the operators, for facilitating the circular transformation by deployment of digital technologies; An easy toolkit to assess your company and see how circular your SME is. All partners have realised a local pilot action based on maturity assessment check and the identification of the company innovation needs.
Potential for learning:
The practice and results from this project are potentially valuable for other regions to learn from, as in this era of globalisation, it is essential to digitalize the processes of small and medium enterprises to maintain market competitiveness. The transition to a circular economy is also a challenge many businesses must address. Furthermore, the project developed a modular training course as a tool that can be used by SMEs in any region, delivered by operators (https://circular40.talentlms.com/). CAT4.0 is specifically designed to guide and support the circular transformation through the deployment of digital technologies.
Further information:
Keywords:
Circular Economy, ICT, Digital Society
