Invitation to CURIOST workshop: Innovative and Sustainable Product Development in a Circular Economy
We invite SMEs to participate in the inaugural workshop of the Interreg Central Europe project CURIOST, which supports the design and development of innovative and sustainable products based on the principles of a circular economy. This project aims to completely shift from the “Make-Use-Dispose” model to a “Make-Use-Recover-Recycle” model. This is a unique opportunity to explore new business transformation opportunities, gain practical knowledge, and join pilot projects that are changing the future of manufacturing in Central Europe.
Why participate?
The CURIOST project helps companies in the mechanical and mechatronics, packaging, plastics, and construction sectors create innovative, eco-friendly products that meet the demands of the future.
We provide practical support in developing prototypes and business cases for sustainable products.
Together, we will develop a strategy and action plan that will facilitate the implementation of green innovations and enable the effective use of EU funding. Participating in the project offers an opportunity to gain a competitive advantage, optimize production processes, and open up to new markets based on green trends.
The project combines the experience of 11 partners from Austria, Germany, Croatia, Hungary, Italy, Poland, and Slovakia (including three technological institutes from Munich, Vienna, and Turin) to create a community of innovation and the exchange of best practices.
What do we offer during the meeting and workshops?
A presentation of the goals and objectives of the CURIOST project and the benefits of the circular economy.
An opportunity to learn about and choose from various approaches to sustainable product design and development.
Workshops that will demonstrate how to transform your product development processes, incorporating sustainable methods and business models using the Design Thinking, Nightmare Competitor, and Business Model Canvas methodologies.
Information about participation in pilots and international innovation marathons that can lead to the market launch of your products. Next steps in the project implementation:
- Participation in workshops (first phase)
- Possibility of being included in the group of 30 pilot companies from the EU
- Co-creation of innovative prototypes
- Development of business models
- Implementation of solutions in your company
Who is the invitation addressed to?
- SMEs in the mechanical and mechatronics, packaging, plastics, and construction sectors.
- Enterprises ready for innovation and open to change, seeking support for the green transformation and new financing opportunities.
- Owners, board members, development directors, and those directly responsible for product development.
Due to the international nature of the project, a good command of English is required.
When and where?
Date: Wednesday, October 22, 2025, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM with a lunch break
Location: NordicHouse, Studencka 15/2a, 1st floor, 31-116 Krakow
The project is open to a maximum of 20 participating companies. Two people from one company.
The support received is part of the de minimis public aid for small-value enterprises that do not distort competitiveness on the EU market. Its value is €239. The South Poland Cleantech Cluster will prepare a certificate of aid for each company participating in the project.
From the applications received, we will select 20 companies to participate in the first workshops. In the second stage, we will select 4-5 companies to participate in the international part of the project.
Join the group of companies that will be the first to benefit from the green transformation!
Don’t wait for the changes to surprise you – be a part of them with CURIOST.
Those interested in participating are asked to register by email by October 15, 2025:
Janusz Kahl
j.kahl@spcleantech.com
📞 +48 601336 880