On 12–13 May 2026, partners of the CURIOST project gathered in Pécs, Hungary, for the 5th project meeting, hosted by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Pécs-Baranya (PBKIK). The meeting brought together partners from across Central Europe to reflect on progress and define the next steps.
Over the past months, the consortium has worked closely with a group of SMEs, supporting them in developing and testing circular product solutions across the four target sectors. With the pilot action phase now completed, the meeting in Pécs provided a valuable opportunity to assess both the results achieved and the lessons learned in applying circular economy principles in practice.
The focus of the project is now shifting towards capitalisation of results. In the coming months, CURIOST will deliver a range of key outputs, including policy recommendations, methodological frameworks, and practical toolkits. These will support institutional stakeholders and SMEs in integrating circular approaches into their strategies and operations, ensuring that the project’s impact extends beyond its duration.
Key topics discussed during the meeting included the finalisation of pilot actions, the consolidation of circular business models, the development of a methodological toolkit for sustainable product development, and the advancement of the CURIOST Action Plan, which connects business needs with policymaking processes.
A highlight of the meeting was the transnational study visit to AquaCut, where partners gained first-hand insight into an innovative company and its advanced manufacturing solutions. This visit reinforced the project’s practical approach and its strong connection to real industrial applications.
Beyond the technical discussions, the meeting also offered an important opportunity for in-person exchange and networking. Strengthening collaboration among partners remains a key element of CURIOST, and gathering in Pécs allowed participants to share perspectives, build stronger connections, and experience the local context together.
Looking ahead, the project will focus on disseminating its results, including the development of a white paper, a transnational awareness campaign on circular economy opportunities, and the preparation of the final conference and sixth partner meeting later in 2026.