The CEI BOOST Interreg Europe project focuses on advancing digital innovations to support the circular economy by fostering collaboration among partners from nine countries. By improving the circular economy and encouraging dynamic cooperation, the initiative seeks to enhance policies for the local, regional, and national implementation of digital tools and processes.

By employing innovative digital approaches, the project seeks to bring together diverse stakeholders, including regional government authorities, research institutions, universities, business support organizations, innovation agencies, and technology hubs, to promote sustainable development. Especially, Sweden, Finland, Lithuania, Bulgaria, Romania, Greece, Spain, Portugal, and France are among the project partners. Small and medium sized businesses (SMEs) gain from the project’s emphasis on resource efficiency, waste reduction, and continuous business models, which helps create a more sustainable and cooperative future. The solutions implemented in this framework will contribute to waste reduction, improved resource efficiency, and the promotion of sustainable business models.

Participating in the IVY Program as part of this project has been an immensely boosting experience that offered numerous opportunities to actively contribute to its objectives. This volunteering role allowed me to engage in meaningful discussions and contribute to significant tasks. I volunteered closely with stakeholders from the Region of Western Greece and project partners, building connections and raising awareness about the project’s mission and objectives.

Through my involvement, I helped generate interest in the project’s efforts to advance digital innovations for the circular economy. It is important to refer my contribution to the meeting that took place among the project’s partners. Particularly, I attended the 9th online PC meeting on November 07, 2024. Moreover, I was involved in preparing the upcoming stakeholder meeting of the project, which will likely take place in January, where good practices from the Region of Western Greece will be presented and discussed with stakeholders. Also, I attended the Webinar on Citizen Science for Policy, on December 10, organized by the Policy Learning Platform. Overall, I was excitedly working with relevant stakeholders to offer perspectives impacting the project’s advancement. In this position, I was able to raise awareness, make connections, and learn more about the project’s goals.

– Anastasia, IVY Project Partner at CEI Boost project under the Interreg Europe programme