The new program supports and connects innovative start-ups in the field of return logistics. In doing so, it makes a sustainable contribution to the development and strengthening of the issue of reverse logistics, which is important for the circular economy.
The startport innovation platform is launching the Reverse Logistics Accelerator on behalf of Circular Valley.
The new program supports and connects innovative start-ups in the field of return logistics. In doing so, it makes a sustainable contribution to the development and strengthening of the issue of reverse logistics, which is important for the circular economy.
The startport innovation platform is launching the Reverse Logistics Accelerator on behalf of Circular Valley. This is intended to specifically promote innovative start-ups in the areas of return logistics and circular economy. The program supports the implementation of business models that contribute to the circular economy and strengthens networking with industrial partners and potential investors.
Retrieve, reprocess and reuse products: Reverse logistics is a central part of the circular economy and is becoming increasingly strategically important for companies. The aim of the new accelerator program is to support startups in developing and launching innovative, sustainable solutions in this area.
“With the launch port of Duisburg, we are pleased to have an excellent partner with great expertise in this area.”
The program helps with questions about financing, sales and communication and helps to establish long-term cooperation between startups and established companies and investors.
“The aim of Circular Valley is to set up accelerator programs on as many circular focal topics in the extended Rhine-Ruhr region as possible,” says Dr. Carsten Gerhardt, chairman of the non-profit Circular Valley Foundation. “Logistics is a central issue for a functioning circular economy. With the launch port of Duisburg, we are pleased to have an excellent partner with great expertise in this area. ”
“Reverse logistics is a key lever for a functioning circular economy. With Circular Valley, we have a strong partner at our side to specifically promote innovations in this area,” says Johannes Franke, managing director of startport. “With the Reverse Logistics Accelerator, we are creating a platform on which startups can work with industry, logistics and sustainability experts in a practical way — right in the heart of the Rhine-Ruhr region. ”
Tailored funding — virtually and on site
The program combines virtual and on-site modules. Participants will meet in person at a kick-off event, three intensive workshops, coaching, and networking with industry partners and at the Circular Valley Forum on November 14, 2025. During weekly jours fixes, mentoring sessions, online workshops and virtual networking, they also stay in touch digitally.
Startups from Germany and neighboring countries can apply — but the focus is on North Rhine-Westphalia. The young companies can be in the pre-seed to series A phases. Relevant industries include reverse logistics, circular economy combined with logistics, sustainable logistics, innovative tracking and tracing technologies, and route optimization solutions. Applications are submitted via the application portal at this link.
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About startport
startport GmbH is an innovation platform for logistics and supply chain management in Duisburg. As a subsidiary of Duisburger Hafen AG — operator of Europe's largest inland port — startport connects startups with industry, investors and science to advance future-oriented solutions in the logistics sector and achieve long-term positive effects for the entire region.
About Circular Valley
Circular Valley is the international hotspot for the circular economy based in the extended Rhine-Ruhr region. The non-profit Circular Valley Foundation brings relevant stakeholders together. Across industries and technologies, companies, startups, science and politics are working together to develop solutions for the transformation to a true circular economy. Public relations, the world's first Circular Economy Accelerator and policy recommendations are the Foundation's priorities.
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