K2C Circular Boost

Circular Boost is a practical, design-driven support programme that helps SMEs move from circular ambition to concrete action. Selected companies work directly on their products, processes and business model to:

1. identify promising circular opportunities,
2. develop, test and validate selected ideas,
3. co-create a first Proof-of-Concept (POC) with a multidisciplinary team of experts.

The programme combines methodological facilitation, design coaching, business development guidance, and technical expertise to help SMEs move forward quickly and confidently.

By the end of the journey, each SME has:

• a clear circular strategy,
• prioritised opportunities,
• and a validated POC (TRL 5-6-7) demonstrating feasibility.

Today’s environment is fast-changing and unpredictable. SMEs face rising costs, new regulations, supply shortages and increasing pressure from clients and competitors.

Circular economy can help you:

• differentiate in your market,
• reduce risks and material dependencies,
• generate new revenue streams,
• strengthen resilience and long-term competitiveness

You may not know where to start: that’s exactly why Circular Boost exists.

By joining Circular Boost, your company will:

• Identify circular opportunities built on your real activities, challenges and strategic priorities.
• Develop and validate your best idea with guidance from experts in design, technology and business.
• Co-create a first Proof of Concept (POC) - a tangible output demonstrating feasibility at TRL 5, 6 or 7.
• Build skills and autonomy – by using tools and methods enabling you to continue your circular transition after the program.
• Connect with peers across the Meuse–Rhine region trough cross-border collective sessions and networking opportunities.

Duration: up to 7 months
Total company commitment: 5 full days.

The support includes:

• Three individual sessions: your SME meets the multidisciplinary team to explore, develop and validate your project.
• Two cross-border collective sessions: peer-to-peer learning, reflection, shared challenges, networking, and inspiration.
• A co-created Proof of Concept (POC), developed together with the Circular Boost team at TRL 5–7.
• A final report - documenting your journey, insights, POC and recommended next steps.

This service is free of charge for participants. The programme is co funded by Interreg Meuse Rhine and has a total estimated value of €17,500. The support is granted under Article 20a of the General Block Exemption Regulation (GBER).

As mentioned above, the service includes tailored support from a multidisciplinary team in design, business and technology. The experts will share their skills and knowledge with the SME to think outside the box and to explore how circularity can support economic opportunities.

This personalised and human-centered approach makes it possible to consider the SME's challenge from different angles and to propose comprehensive and complementary solutions.