Cork Chamber launches BRIDGES, the Circular Innovation Network for SMEs

Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has launched a new circular innovation network, connecting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to exchange ideas and explore sustainable, circular solutions.

BRIDGES, the new circular innovation network, is an EU-funded project linking Cork Chamber with partner organisations in Sweden, Norway, Finland and Iceland to collaborate and support SMEs on their circularity journeys.

Circularity means keeping products and materials in use for as long as possible, through reuse, repair, remanufacturing and recycling, reducing waste and the need for new resources. A more circular economic model promotes efficient resource use, longer lasting products and accessible repairs, helping to reduce costs for businesses.

Participating SMEs will have access to tailored supports and valuable international collaboration, enabling them to develop new partnerships with like-minded SMEs and providers of circular solutions.

Cork Chamber CEO, Conor Healy, said, “Cork Chamber is pleased to be partnering with business organisations across the Nordic region to deliver the new BRIDGES project. This important project provides a unique opportunity for SMEs in the region to strengthen their circularity credentials and explore the potential for international collaboration.

“Supporting the transition to a more sustainable, secure economic future is vital, and partnerships like this are an important method of translating sustainability, circularity and innovation into meaningful action on the ground for businesses. Sustainability is a critical priority for Cork Chamber members and initiatives like BRIDGES play a key role in making the sustainable transition accessible for SMEs.”

Dr Alicia Mateos Cárdenas, Sustainability and BRIDGES Project Lead at Cork Chamber, said, “As a government-appointed Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Ambassador, Cork Chamber works to embed sustainability in the region’s business community, supporting Cork companies to implement more sustainable practices and leading by example in our own activities.

“The BRIDGES project is another step towards a more sustainable, circular economy. By supporting businesses already involved in circularity to explore innovative ideas, as well as engaging with businesses less familiar with circularity but interested in exploring its potential, the project will bring together businesses at different stages of their circularity journeys.

“This, combined with the project’s cross-border support, will enable exchange of experiences and ideas, laying the groundwork for new, innovative circular solutions to grow.”

BRIDGES, the circular innovation network, is open to Cork Chamber members and non-members, both those already involved in circularity as well as those interested in learning more and exploring potential innovative ideas.

Learn more about BRIDGES and register for the project webinar on 28th January 2027 HERE.