Target Circular

Project Summary

The Target Circular project is a collaborative initiative involving institutions from Ireland, Finland, Norway, and Iceland, building on recent research into applying scientific methods to business decision-making.

The project's goal is to develop and share resources with business advisors and policymakers in each participating country, fostering evidence-based policies and training programs to enhance the success of sustainable SMEs.

Target Circular will equip business founders with state-of-the-art tools and knowledge to transition to circular practices. These practices include waste valorization, forming environmental partnerships, and creating sustainable supply chains. By using these tools, businesses will be empowered to make informed decisions, identify sustainable success pathways, and avoid potential challenges.

Funded by the EU's Interreg program, the project will guide SMEs in adopting circular and sustainable practices through a "strategy mapping" process designed to help them effectively implement sustainability initiatives.

This Irish-led project is spearheaded by the Hincks Centre of Entrepreneurship Excellence, with support from the Circular Economy Cluster Southwest at MTU.

Target Circular runs from January 2023 through until December 2025 and has a budget of €1,411,829.80.

Project Partners

Munster Technological University (MTU) – Cork, Ireland - Through the Hincks Centre of Entrepreneurship Excellence, MTU leads the project, providing vision, leadership, project management, and subject expertise.

Centria University of Applied Sciences Ltd – Kokkola, Finland - A higher education and R&D institution supporting business development, promoting technology and assisting enterprises in overcoming business challenges.

Ludgate Operations CLG – Skibbereen, Ireland - Ireland’s first rural digital hub, providing co-working space and fostering a culture of innovation and digitization in West Cork.

Biotech North – Tromsø, Norway - knowledge-based business cluster focusing on developing marine health products, promoting biotechnology in the green shift and circular economy, and utilizing marine resources.

Federation of Regional Authorities NW Iceland (SSNV) – Iceland, - SSNV provides business planning assistance, mentoring, research, and support to the private and community sectors.

Kokkolanseudun Kehitys Ltd (KOSEK) – Kokkola, Finland - A regional development company offering versatile, free-of-charge business development services to entrepreneurs and companies.