The CEGO – Circular Economy Go project (2024–2026) has delivered measurable impact in accelerating the transition of SMEs and regional ecosystems towards circular economy practices in the Uusimaa region.
By establishing a structured, collaboration-driven innovation network of approximately 40 companies and organizations, the project has strengthened cross-sectoral knowledge exchange and co-creation capabilities.
Scientific and Knowledge Impact
The project has contributed to the advancement of applied knowledge on circular economy business models by integrating research-based insights with practical industry experimentation. Training and research dissemination activities enhanced participants’ customer and market understanding, forming a critical knowledge base for the development of sustainable, circular business solutions.
Economic and Innovation Impact
CEGO has supported SMEs in developing and piloting new circular product and service concepts, thereby fostering innovation and improving business model resilience. The project enhanced resource efficiency and waste reduction practices, contributing to more sustainable value creation across participating organizations.
The strengthened innovation capacity is reflected in:
- Increased capability to design circular business models
- Improved readiness for future circular economy investments
- Emergence of collaborative innovation projects beyond the initial consortium
Societal and Environmental Impact
The project has directly contributed to environmental sustainability by promoting:
- Reduced material waste
- Improved resource efficiency
- Adoption of circular economy principles across regional actors
At the societal level, the project has strengthened multi-actor collaboration, fostering a culture of shared learning and distributed expertise that supports long-term system-level transformation.
Policy and Ecosystem Impact
As an ecosystem initiative, CEGO has enhanced regional coordination by aligning with parallel initiatives such as the Uusimaa Circular Valley, generating synergies and reducing fragmentation in circular economy development efforts.
The project has demonstrated the effectiveness of network-based innovation models, providing a replicable framework for regional circular economy ecosystems within the EU.
Capacity Building and Skills Development
The project has highlighted the critical role of continuous training and competence development as drivers of innovation. It strengthened organizational capabilities in:
- Circular business strategy development
- Co-creation and stakeholder collaboration
- Performance measurement and goal-setting in circular economy contexts
Long-term Impact and Sustainability
CEGO has established a strong foundation for sustained impact beyond the project lifecycle. Planned continuation actions include:
- Scaling and deepening project results
- Launching new international collaborative initiatives
- Expanding the network and knowledge-sharing mechanisms
These outcomes ensure durability and scalability, supporting the EU’s broader objectives on green transition, circular economy, and SME competitiveness.
Kati Tawast
Project Manager
Circular Economy Go
kati.tawast@laurea.fi
Kati Tawast | LinkedIn