The CCRI Mentoring Programme, managed by the CCRI Knowledge Hub, helps cities and regions speed up their circular economy transition. It offers tailored support based on an initial assessment.This includes customised support pathways, expert mentoring, workshops, and sharing of practical resources.

Support focuses mainly on four areas:

• public engagement,
• innovation and technology,
• business models and finance, and
• impact evaluation, ensuring local needs and contexts are fully addressed.

On-demand topics according to the cities and regions needs are also considered. So far, two calls have been launched: one has already closed, and the other is open until 17 October 2025. More information below.

• To support cities and regions in advancing the implementation of systemic Circular Economy solutions.
• To facilitate personalised support through one-to-one expert mentoring, capacity building activities and materials.

• First Open call (closed)
• Second Open call (deadline: 17 October 2025)

• Workshops:
  1. Enhancing Public Engagement in Circular Transitions
  2. Interregional Innovation Investments (I3) Instrument
  3. Exploring Material Hubs - Workshop Introduction
  4. Circular Business Models and technologies in the agri-food sector
  5. Public Engagement on Circular Economy
  6. Zero Waste and Circular City

• Over 30 cities and regions submitted their application during our first round.
• 9 cities and regions being supported in the first round, with high satisfaction rates.

1. Montpellier Méditerranée Métropole, France
2. Poltava Region, Ukraine
3. Gacko, Bosnia and Herzegovina
4. Samar city, Dnipropetrovsk region, Ukraine
5. Roskovec, Albania
6. Møre and Romsdal fylkeskommune, Norway
7. Skive Municipality, Denmark
8. Central Finland, Finland
9. City of Stavanger, Norway

1. Who can apply for the CCRI Mentoring Programme?

Any city or region from an EU Member State or a Horizon Europe–associated country can apply.

2. Can cities or regions already involved in the CCRI as Pilots apply?

No. Cities and regions currently supported as Pilots by the CCRI-CSO are not eligible. This call aims to expand the CCRI community and bring in newcomers.

3. What kind of support will selected participants receive?

Selected cities and regions will benefit from:

• A comprehensive diagnostic assessment of their circular economy readiness.
• A tailored support plan co-designed with a dedicated mentor.
• Expert guidance mainly in four thematic areas: public engagement, innovation & technology, business models & finance, and impact evaluation. On-demand topics are also considered.
• Access to workshops, seminars, and events.

4. What is the duration and expected time commitment of the programme?

The programme runs for at least 6 months, starting in November 2025. Participants should commit to:

• Up to 2 co-design sessions.
• Around 12 mentoring sessions (2 hours each).

5. Where can I learn more before applying?

You can watch our recorded informative webinar for more information.

For any questions, please contact CCRIknowledgehub@kveloce.com.