Circular Valley is a unique initiative aimed at establishing the extended metropolitan region of Rhine-Ruhr as a global center for the circular economy. Based in Wuppertal, in the heart of North Rhine-Westphalia, Circular Valley leverages its ideal location in one of Europe's most dynamic economic regions to bring together innovation, research, and businesses.
The main mission of Circular Valley is to drive the transformation from a linear to a circular economy. This is achieved through close collaboration between international start-ups, established companies, scientific institutions, and political actors. The focus is on optimizing and closing material cycles along existing value chains, developing policy recommendations and frameworks, as well as sustainably informing the public about the circular economy[4][5].
Circular Economy Accelerator Program: This program supports start-ups from around the world that focus on the circular economy. It includes two consecutive in-person phases in Wuppertal, individual mentoring, coaching, and tailored workshops. Participants benefit from close contacts with over 140 partners from industry, research, and politics, as well as financial support for travel, accommodation, and business conditions[2][4].
Circular Valley Convention: This international convention, held in DĂĽsseldorf, brings together top decision-makers from companies, start-ups, research, politics, and society. It provides a platform for knowledge exchange and networking at the highest level and includes high-profile conferences, an expo, and exclusive events[1].
Networking and Partnerships: Circular Valley connects start-ups with global market leaders, established companies, and scientific institutions in the Rhine-Ruhr region. This enables peer-to-peer exchange, the development of mentoring relationships, and participation in a global alumni network[2][4].
Circular Valley is committed to making the Rhine-Ruhr region a global hotspot for the circular economy. The sustainability goals include:
The non-profit Circular Valley Foundation is supported by the state of North Rhine-Westphalia and the EU. Additionally, various funding organizations and over 100 partners sponsor the foundation. The initiative was awarded the Wuppertal Economic Prize in 2022 and is mentioned in the coalition agreement of the state government of North Rhine-Westphalia as a model initiative for the circular economy[4][5].
Circular Valley is thus a central player in promoting a circular economy and significantly contributes to the sustainable transformation of the economy in the region and beyond.
