What are we looking for?
We are looking for startups with technologies, business models, products and materials that have been designed to advance the transition to a circular economy. Startups must address one (or more) of the principles of the circular economycircular economyA systems solution framework that tackles global challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, waste, and pollution. It is based on three principles, driven by design: eliminate waste and pollution, circulate products and materials (at their highest value), and regenerate nature. as a fundamental part of their business model. These principles are:
The circular economy is about much more than recycling, so solutions must go beyond inclusion of recycled content.
Sector focus areas
The Ellen MacArthur Foundation has published research and reports on specific industry sectors, including visions for how a circular economy could apply to different material streams. We use these to evaluate solutions for inclusion in the index, but we also include startups that work in other sectors.
Plastics
Fashion
Food
Built Environment
What won’t we include?
The Circular Startup Index does not include consultancies, agencies, or learning providers. Whilst these organisations play a critical role in the transition to a circular economy, this library is home instead to technologies, business models, products and materials.
Not all startups accepted as part of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation community will be included as part of the Circular Startup Index. Due to the volume of applications, we are unable to deliver personalised feedback on why this may be, but we hope these guidelines provide some clarity around our priorities.
