EIT Climate-KIC launches new accelerator to support solutions for the Built Environment

Following a successful second edition of the Circular Cities ClimAccelerator, EIT Climate-KIC has launched a new programme to accelerate the circular transition of the construction and infrastructure sectors.

The Built Environment Circular ClimAccelerator will support 25 European start-up teams with solutions in urban design, retrofitting to extending building life, the reusing, leasing, upcycling and recycling of construction materials or assessing their impact, transportation and logistics, and the energy sector.

The new accelerator offers grants and a tailor-made programme for advanced start-ups aligned with circular practices – such as modularity, upgradability and prolonged use – that can  help industries benefit from the value retention of product components and materials while respecting Earth’s biophysical limits.

EIT Climate-KIC has supported several start-ups with solutions for the Built Environment through its entrepreneurship programmes. SunCrafter, for example, provides solar stations for micro e-mobility, venues and events, and for emergency power applications, while Concrete4Change is developing sequestration technology capable of storing up to 30 per cent of CO2 in concrete.

“Applying circular economy principles in practice is challenging and requires systemic change. But it can be done, and the benefits for businesses, the environment, the economy and society are substantial,” said Breandán Goss, Programme Director for the Circular Cities ClimAccelerator.

By adopting a circular economy, the construction industry can significantly reduce the amount of virgin materials needed and waste generated. The Ellen Macarthur Foundation forecasts that applying a circular approach to the built environment could reduce global CO2 emissions by 38 per cent in 2050.

The Built Environment Circular ClimAccelerator is co-funded by EIT Climate-KIC, global innovation hub GreenTech HQ and the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), with support from implementation partners Luvent Consulting and Tangent, Trinity’s Ideas Workspace – Trinity College Dublin. The two-stage programme, comprising Business Model Development, and Validation and Traction, offers:

• potential grant funding of up to €18.000
• training and coaching sessions for scaling start-ups’ solutions
• investment opportunities via EIT Climate-KIC ClimAccelerator marketplace
• networking with cities, investors and corporates
• peer-to-peer learning and access to our established alumni community

The call for applications is now open until 19 September.

For more information about eligibility criteria, please visit the website or write to info@circular-accelerator.com.