CIWM launches new fund to boost circular economy innovation

The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) announced the creation of the Circular Economy Innovators Fund, a new approach to enable circular economy businesses to develop. This unique fund will provide resources to equip up to six small and micro businesses with marketing expertise they might not have in-house, including brand communications and design assistance, to the value of £10,000 each.

Open to small and micro businesses within the UK and Republic of Ireland, the fund seeks to empower emerging circular economy innovators that have already established their footprint and are keen to expand their reach and diversify their offerings. In collaboration with Barley Communications, an award-winning communications agency, the initiative will provide the winners with tailored support from seasoned brand designers, media relations specialists, and social media experts. This collaboration aims to understand the unique needs of each business and develop a bespoke brand communications plan.

Dan Cooke, President of CIWM, highlighted the significance of the fund in moving the world beyond waste and accelerating the transition towards a more circular economy. He noted, "The Circular Economy Innovators Fund is the first challenger fund to offer circular economy businesses access to specialist marketing and communications support and expert advice to fast-track their business growth.

“There are many small and micro companies in the sector that have incredible forward-thinking products and services which clearly contribute to greater resource efficiency and a more circular economy. But they might welcome help with accessing the skills required to better tell their stories and accelerate their business to the next level. Through partnering with a communications agency that has strategic experts in a wide range of areas, winners can choose which channels of communication they feel they will most benefit from.”

The fund is open to businesses focused on initiatives that include sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing, and recycling existing materials and products. This approach aims to extend the life cycle of products and materials, thereby contributing to a more sustainable and efficient use of resources.

Applications for the Circular Economy Innovators Fund are open until Monday, 22nd April, with successful applicants to be selected by early summer. Winning projects will gain exposure across CIWM’s award-winning content channels later in the year.

For more information on the fund and application details, interested parties are encouraged to visit the application portal.