MKB Circular workspace

Becoming more circular is a challenge for many SMEs, but starting the process can be difficult. Through MKB Circular Workspaces, we offer innovative solutions by connecting your SME with student teams. These teams can assist with tasks such as implementing circular design and exploring new business models.

What to expect

What we provide

The program

The Circular workspaces consist of projects carried out by students under the guidance of educational experts, with entrepreneurs receiving support from the MDW team. These projects assist SMEs facing circularity challenges and focus on themes such as design and production, logistics, business models, and user interaction with circular consumer goods.

With the SME’s needs as the main focus, this program contains several offers targeted at your specific needs, going from masterclasses given by experts to months-long collaborations with student groups and other SMEs around circularity challenges.

We offer four distinct projects within the MKB Circular Workspace:

Offers 1 and 2 connect SMEs with circularity challenges to knowledge institutions, where students work on practical assignments focused on circularity and sustainability.

Offer 3 pairs students and entrepreneurs under the guidance of expert companies, with entrepreneurs co-paying and students receiving compensation. This can take the form of individual collaborations or group sessions (Master Classes) on specific topics.

Offer 4 provides Master Classes where expert companies guide entrepreneurs through circularity topics in 60-90 minute sessions, often encouraging participation in Offers 1-3.

After completing this program, you will gain:

  • A more future-proof SME

  • Knowledge and skills to adapt to a fast-changing market

  • The opportunity to collaborate with motivated and talented students

  • Student assistance in developing new business models, analyzing sustainable materials, conducting research, and supporting circular purchasing

  • A cost-effective collaboration that injects fresh ideas and allows your SME to harness the energy and enthusiasm of the younger generation

  • A time-saving recruitment process and ongoing support from the MCW team

Practical details

For whom?

This program is aimed at SMEs in the region of North Holland seeking to enhance their circularity.

Partners

The program involves the Amsterdam University of Applied Science, the ROC van Amsterdam, Inholland, Preneurz, the Municipality of Amsterdam and the Province of North Holland.

Funding

In 2023, the program received funding from the Municipality of Amsterdam and the Province of North Holland. For the years 2024, 2025, and 2026, funding will be provided by the Nationaal Groei Fonds.

Unlock the power of collaboration

For more information on creating the perfect SME workspace, designing entrepreneurship programmes at universities and to become your partner in European collaborations, please do not hesitate to contact us.