Fraunhofer-Informationszentrum This year, TU Dortmund, BAUM e. V. and Fraunhofer IRB are collaborating for the first time on the launch of the »Circulate« project and will be hosting the Industry Impact Conference 2026 in Stuttgart. For more information about the project, please visit this page and see the section titled »Project Background: CIRCULATE«.
Industry Impact Conference
Strategic Autonomy: Future-Proofing in Times of Geopolitical Upheaval
Under the motto »Strategic Autonomy: Strategic Autonomy: Future-Proofing in Times of Geopolitical Upheaval«, we tackle the highly dynamic and ongoing crises of today. Whether dealing with rising energy costs, disrupted supply chains, or resource shortages driven by political tension, we examine these global challenges alongside visionary leaders and actively work toward resilient solutions.
We bring multiple industries into the conversation, as shifting perspectives and collaboration are essential in times of crisis. From tech and fashion to the food industry, the insights are wide-ranging. In cooperation with our partners, we cordially invite you to help shape the discourse.
A First Look at the Program
On the Eve of the Conference (28. October 2026):
- Evening program with city exploration in Stuttgart starting at 5PM (only by RSVP)
- Community-Evening starting 5PM (only by personal invitation)
Main Program (29. October 2026):
The event brings together representatives from business, politics, academia, and civil society to discuss issues ranging from the food supply and the textile industry to cybersecurity and urban development. The focus is on some of the most pressing challenges of our time, such as unstable supply chains, geopolitical tensions, new regulatory requirements and the responsible use of artificial intelligence.
The programme comprises industry-specific keynote presentations alongside hands-on workshops covering topics such as Ecodesign principles, green data, AI prompting, and transition design. Attendees will also benefit from targeted networking opportunities, such as matchmaking sessions, which can turn initial encounters into genuine collaborations.
The conference begins at 09:00 with an open networking session and concludes at 17:30, leaving attendees with concrete insights, new contacts and a shared vision for the future.
Here you will find the complete program, including descriptions of the presentations and workshops.
Project Background: CIRCULATE
Circular Economy for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in the Manufacturing Sector Through Digital Training and Continuing Education Initiatives
Ongoing Project
Background
The circular economy is becoming increasingly important for small and medium-sized enterprises in the manufacturing sector, as it makes a significant contribution to reducing resource consumption, waste generation, and CO₂ emissions. At the same time, it helps companies meet growing regulatory requirements, lower costs through more efficient use of materials, and strengthen their competitiveness in an economy that is increasingly focused on sustainability. It can be best implemented in small and medium-sized enterprises by first establishing a clear overview of existing processes, materials, and competencies. On this basis, targeted training programs can help raise employee awareness of circular approaches and identify concrete opportunities for action. Circular advocates play a key role here by bringing knowledge into the workplace and supporting its integration into daily operations. It is crucial that the measures align with the company’s size, structure, and culture, as this increases acceptance within the team. Clear, transparent decisions and understandable communication help to embed the circular economy in the company’s operations over the long term.
Objective
The CIRCULATE project supports small and medium-sized enterprises in the manufacturing sector in systematically integrating the principles of the circular economy into their operational and production processes. The goal is to equip specialists and managers with the skills needed for resource-efficient and climate-friendly business practices through innovative, digital training and continuing education programs. Through practical training modules, a train-the-trainer concept for training Circular Advocates, and a digital handbook, companies are empowered to avoid waste, use resources more efficiently, and reduce CO₂ emissions. At the same time, the project supports adaptation to new regulatory requirements and strengthens the long-term competitiveness of companies through sustainable and future-oriented production and working methods.
Role of Fraunhofer IRB
- Development of the content-based transfer modules
- Training of Circular Advocates
- Organization of the »Industry Impact Conference«
Results
Results are not yet available, as the project has not yet been completed.