How do we turn bold circular and regenerative ideas into everyday reality for Amsterdam? Last week offered two inspiring answers. The Ecosystem Day brought together nine Amsterdam Circular startups, innovators, investors, and policymakers, including Deputy Mayor Zita Pels. They explored how emerging circular businesses can address pressing urban challenges in the construction industry, from waste reduction to the development of sustainable construction materials and the adoption of new technologies. The following day, the Donut Economic Circus hosted Kate Raworth for a participatory performance of "Battle for the Biosphere," bringing her book "Doughnut Economics" to life through theater, audience engagement, and circus arts.
Across both events, the City of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Circular, leading experts, and civic-minded audiences came together to explore new paths toward a thriving and resilient future.
Ecosystem Day (Thursday)
A Gathering Focused on Circular Progress
The Ecosystem Day brought together the nine startups graduating from the Amsterdam Circular cohort, along with ten invited speakers from government and industry. The long-form conversation format encouraged meaningful exchanges rather than traditional presentations.
Deputy Mayor Zita Pels took part in the discussions and explored with founders how their innovations can support Amsterdam’s transition to a circular economy. Startups also met with investors and policy actors, receiving feedback, visibility, and new connections that are essential for scaling.
Insights that Emerged from the Conversations
The discussions highlighted how reuse systems and bio-based materials for the built environment already offer practical contributions to the city’s circular ambitions. The conversational structure facilitated open dialogue, allowing policymakers and industry leaders to explore barriers, opportunities, and potential alignment with current policy goals. Investors also played an essential role by clarifying funding pathways and expectations within the market. The presence of the Deputy Mayor affirmed that Amsterdam is committed to accelerating circular transformation.
The event supports Amsterdam’s Circular Strategy 2020-2025, which sets the ambition for a fully circular city by 2050. Gatherings like Ecosystem Day strengthen collaboration between entrepreneurs, government, industry, and communities, which is necessary to achieve the long-term goal.
Donut Economic Circus (Friday)
Turning Donut Economics into an Experience
The following day, the Donut Economic Circus offered a very different but complementary experience. Economist Kate Raworth presented her interactive sketch, "Battle for the Biosphere," titled "Nature vs. Finance."
Through storytelling, acting, and audience involvement, the performance highlighted the tension between ecological limits and financial incentives, inviting the audience to help shape the narrative. The show emphasized that Amsterdam’s journey toward the Donut model requires systemic shifts, along with a shift in public imagination.
The day concluded with an energizing performance by circus artists who combined acrobatics and live music and left attendees inspired.
What Participants Took Away
The event made economic theory engaging and accessible through humor and shared participation. Attendees were encouraged to imagine new roles for themselves in shaping an economy that respects ecological boundaries and supports human wellbeing. The performance also showed how culture, storytelling, and art can help translate complex ideas into action and understanding across a broad audience.
Rounding Off
Together, these two events highlighted the importance of both innovation and imagination in shaping Amsterdam’s future. From practical startup-led solutions to transformative economic narratives, the city is taking steps toward a circular and regenerative future grounded in collaboration and creativity.
Join the Amsterdam Circular Program
If you are a startup creating circular consumer products,join the next cohort of Amsterdam Circular, kicking off in the first quarter of 2026.
Join upcoming events or connect with Amsterdam Circular to support the next cohort of circular innovators by following Amsterdam Circular Luma’s Page.
Explore our short documentaries featuring circular startups from earlier batches.
Learn more about Donut Economics.
Discover Amsterdam’s Circular Strategy.