Set.Up Guimarães, in partnership with IPCA, embarked on an innovative international mission to the Netherlands aimed at exploring new opportunities in sustainability, innovation, and circular economy.
The Knowledge Mission held from April 2 to 4, brought together representatives from academia, government, industry, and students from across the RUN-EU network, with the goal of finding sustainable solutions to global challenges.
The mission kicked off at Stenden University in the city of Leeuwarden. Over three days of intense knowledge exchange, participants had the opportunity to visit some of the most innovative companies in the region. Among the highlights were cutting-edge projects and businesses such as Opnieuw, specializing in recycling and reuse; Vismigratierivier, focused on aquatic ecosystem regeneration; ImpaCd Boats, dedicated to sustainable mobility solutions; and Omrin, a leader in waste management, along with Energiecampus Leeuwarden, a center of excellence for renewable energy.
The second and third days of the mission were marked by inspiring lectures from leaders such as Marc Otto, President of the Executive Board of NHL Stenden, and Abel Reitsma, Councillor of the Municipality. Additionally, interactive design sessions challenged participants to think outside the box and propose practical solutions to the challenges faced by circular entrepreneurs, with collaboration from students in the Green Growth – Sustainable Business in a Circular Society program.
The event concluded with poster presentations and a networking event, promoting the exchange of ideas and strengthening international collaborations.
The Knowledge Mission was more than just a trip; it was a transformative experience that strengthened Set.Up Guimarães and its global collaboration network, placing sustainability and innovation at the heart of the future. Check out the photos from the mission!
