Circular Hotspot Events: A Proven Model to Advance Circular Economy

The Circular Hotspot Event is a global, annual gathering in a local setting, aimed to shape and advance the local circular economy. It is a living demonstration where local context shapes global impact, and where the change makers, governments, enterprises, industries, and communities come together to further shape and advance the transition. It is not a conference, but an international stage dedicated to support the local progress to circularity. It showcases and scales local circular practices, initiatives, and policies, while fostering cross-border collaboration, knowledge exchange, as well as new business and policy partnerships. 

The event series was born in the Netherlands in 2016. What began as a single initiative quickly proved too powerful to stay in one place. Recognizing its impact, the concept was entrusted to us, Holland Circular Hotspot, which carried it beyond borders—into regions, countries, and continents around the world. To further strengthen and scale its global influence, the Circular Hotspot Events are now stewarded by Circular Hotspot B.V., continuing to grow the movement on an international level. 

The Circular Hotspot Event aims to: 

• Accelerate long-term circular transition and create local impact 
• Showcase and scale local circular innovation, practices, initiatives, policies 
• Foster crosspollination and (international) connections 
• Build new business and policy collaborations, including transnational 

The event serves as a landmark to create the change you want to see in your country / region. 

Today, it has grown into a truly global movement. With 17 editions delivered across five continents, each event creates strong local impact while generating international visibility. 

What do Circular Hotspot Event look like?

A Circular Hotspot Event is typically a 3 day, impact-driven programme designed around the host region, focusing on sectors with strong local momentum to ensure relevance and tangible impact. The programme follows the Circular Hotspot guideline framework, supporting high-quality, circular, and impactful delivery while accelerating preparation and stakeholder engagement. 

A typical programme includes a circular-by-design approach, action-oriented discussions and panels, networking sessions, showcases of local and international circular initiatives and businesses, and integrated local experiences. It ensures inclusive engagement, strong international participation, and diverse matchmaking formats such as speed networking, AI-powered tools, pitching, and activity-based networking. Check out the Highlights from previous events HERE. 

To further enhance the experience and impact, organisers are strongly encouraged to include site visits, workshops, and participation fee waivers for young people, NGOs, and previous Circular Hotspot organisers. 

What support does Circular Hotspot B.V. provide?

While Circular Hotspot (NXT) Events are organized and delivered by local hosts, Circular Hotspot B.V. provides the international framework, coordination, and expertise that underpin the global movement. Through the Circular Hotspot Partnership Package, organizers gain access to a proven event model, internationally recognized branding, and strategic support that helps reduce preparation time, enhance event quality, and strengthen sponsor and stakeholder engagement. 

Drawing on the experience of more than a decade of Circular Hotspot Events worldwide, Circular Hotspot B.V. supports organizers with practical guidance, knowledge sharing, network access, and international promotion. This includes a comprehensive guidebook, regular consultation sessions, access to global partners and stakeholders, communication and design assets, and support in attracting international participation and visibility. 

Circular Hotspot B.V. also contributes directly to the event by helping shape its international dimension, co-opening and closing the programme, and facilitating the selection and announcement of future host locations. In addition, organizers can explore tailored collaborations such as workshops, trainings, learning expeditions, matchmaking activities, and other formats that further strengthen the event’s impact, legacy, and value for participants. 

What outcomes and impact can organizers expect from hosting a Circular Hotspot Event?

Hosting a Circular Hotspot Event places your country, region, or city on the international circular economy map, providing global visibility to local ambitions, innovations, and leadership. 

For organizers, the event offers far more than recognition as a host. It positions them as key drivers of the circular transition, connecting them directly with international decision-makers, businesses, investors, policymakers, and innovators. This visibility and access can lead to new partnerships, projects, funding opportunities, trade relations, and long-term ecosystem development. 

Companies benefit from international exposure, stronger sustainability positioning, and opportunities to access new markets and collaborations. Governments gain a platform to showcase leadership, exchange policy insights, and mobilize stakeholders around shared circular economy ambitions. NGOs, academia, and research institutions can expand their networks, highlight their expertise, and unlock new collaboration and funding opportunities. 

The impact extends well beyond the event itself, creating lasting connections, strengthening local ecosystems, generating tangible business and policy outcomes, and accelerating the transition towards a circular economy. 

Revisited Circular Hotspot Events – Circular Hotspot NXT

Building on the local energy and outcomes of previous editions, we have introduced Circular Hotspot NXT event. It allows the movement to return to places where it has already taken root— enabling countries and regions to build on existing momentum and organize a new edition. It can be led by the same organization or a new coalition. The format and support provided for a Circular Hotspot NXT Event are the same as for a Circular Hotspot Event. The key difference is that Circular Hotspot NXT is not assigned through an election process. Instead, organizations are warmly invited to apply for the opportunity to host. Each application is thoughtfully reviewed, with Circular Hotspot B.V. providing guidance and granting final approval to ensure strong alignment and quality. 

Together, Circular Hotspot (NXT) Events create momentum, turning ambition into action and local leadership into global progress.

Bring the Circular Hotspot (NXT) Event to your Country/ City or Region

Are you ready to become the next host city or region for the Circular Hotspot in 2027 or 2028? 

This is a unique opportunity for governments and organizations to showcase local circular practices — from innovative business models and industrial solutions to pioneering regional and national policies. The mission? To make the event a catalyst for local circular development — sparking momentum, collaboration, and lasting impact. 

Applications will be shortlisted by a panel of the local organizers of the current Circular Hotspot Events and Circular Hotspot B.V. The jury consists of members of previous and upcoming Circular Hotspot Event hosts. 

To learn more about the application process, please read our FAQ. 

More questions? Email us:  info@hollandcircularhotspot.nl