Arabia Circular Hub Helsinki
The Arabia Circular Hub Helsinki advanced circular economy business and new innovations by bringing small and medium-sized companies together. The project was co-funded by the European Union and Helsinki-Uusimaa Regional Council 1.10.2024–30.9.2026.
Carried out by Forum Virium Helsinki and Business Helsinki, the Arabia Circular Hub Helsinki project designed and launched a circular economy-focused cluster, ARKI 135 Circular Hub, for businesses. The aim of the Circular Hub was to support the business activities, production processes, product innovations, as well as regional and international RDI collaboration of especially small and medium-sized circular economy companies.
In addition to a physical and virtual environment, the project created an active network of more than 120 actors. ARKI 135 Circular Hub offered the network regular program to support their cooperation, expert services for business development, and opportunities for RDI collaboration. The project organised several events to highlight funding possibilities related to circular economy innovation activities.
The target group of the project consisted of circular economy SMEs and startups in the Uusimaa region. The target group also included the regional circular RDI ecosystem, such as local universities. The operational model for the hub was co-developed with the Arabia 135 block, managed by Varma.
Objectives of the project
1. Increase collaboration, innovation, and business activities for circular economy companies
We support collaboration and innovation activities among circular economy SMEs by, for example, identifying usable side streams, shared resources, business cooperation potential, and innovation partnerships.
2. Create an operational and operator model for the Circular Hub
We co-develop the operational and operator model of the Circular Hub to serve SMEs in the circular economy sector. The model will include a physical space concept, digital and physical services for businesses, and the activities of the hub. The continuity of the hub will be ensured by engaging the right actors.
3. Increase international and RDI network activities for circular economy actors
We identify key RDI players and international hubs in the circular economy field. We also help companies network internationally.
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