Circular Entrepreneurship
Towards a circular, inclusive and regenerative economy
Our current economic system does not meet the growing need to improve our society ecologically and socially. It is too focused on financial growth and maximising short-term profit. It is a linear economy: production processes are not taken into account and no thought is given to the long-term effects, such as negative social impact.
The problems arising from our current economic system can be tackled only if a different system is considered. The new economy is circular: with respect for the Earth’s capacity for renewal. An inclusive economy which also cares for the basic needs of the vulnerable groups in socio-economic difficulties or out of work.
Support from DOEN
DOEN supports sustainable and socially inclusive entrepreneurs and parties that bring the ecosystem together and/or strengthen the sector. These are people with innovative products or services that will contribute to the creation of a new, circular economy in the Netherlands and East Africa. They are people who dare to take risks and seize new opportunities. They are people who come up with new solutions or business models. These inspiring pioneers set an example for others and show that the new circular economy can be put into practice.
For example, these pioneers educate and stimulate us on:
- The origin, use and upcycling of materials, e.g. in the clothing, construction, and waste treatment industries or the food sector
- The reuse of materials, for example by using waste for 3D printing
- Sustainable ecological (landscape) restoration
- New ownership models, such as forms of lending and products as a service
DOEN provides direct support to these pioneers in the form of grants, loans, guarantees or investments.
Examples
Applications
If you would like to make an application, please read the programme criteria first. If you want to know more, or have questions, please send an e-mail to Irene de Jong at [email protected]
