The project has been preceded by a preliminary study that includes questionnaires, workshops and interviews conducted with small and medium-sized companies (SMF) and major industrial companies in Gävleborg and the public sector. The preliminary study shows that two main areas of the circular economy have been assessed to have extra potential: Development of circular business models and mapping of material flows. Companies also express a need to better ensure their competence and to take advantage of newly arrived people’s experiences and knowledge. The overall goal of the project is to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from SMEs and strengthen Gävleborg’s implementation expertise in the circular economy area. Project objectives: The project has a clear focus on, above all, environmental and economic sustainable development by offering SMEs and public sector tools to reduce their environmental impact through changes in business models while at the same time increasing value creation. The project consists of three sub-goals: 1) The first is about developing their business models together on the company’s own terms to become circular. 2) The second focuses on mapping and creating a market for material flows in Gävleborg. By selling material between companies and bringing it back into production, innovations are made possible. 3) In the third part of the project, the enterprise-promoting system, procurement and other public sector officials will continue to train circular business models to create value for both SMEs and the public sector. Objectives for horizontal criteria: The methods of thinking and working with the circular economy strengthen and provide conditions for structural transformation into a more emission-free and sustainable society. Enable new arrivals to establish themselves in the labour market. To strengthen the prerequisites for equal treatment and gender equality through the project’s activities. Expected result at the end of the project: In terms of knowledge, it is one of the leading circular economy regions in Sweden and an attractive partner in the area in Europe and globally. Scientifically validated business models have been developed for the circular economy with good examples among SMEs in the region that reduce carbon dioxide emissions and increase the profitability of companies. The Government has an improved overview of material flows that can be supplemented by methods for mapping that has been developed through the project. The ability and methods to take advantage of new arrivals‘skills in matching the companies’ competence for increased diversity is included as a natural part of system thinking around the circular economy together with a gender equality perspective to also strive for optimal use of the region’s human capital. Expected long-term effects Thought and working methods with the circular economy have strengthened the development of knowledge about sustainability and the conditions for the smart green transition to a sustainable society. The four principles of the circular economy: system thinking, the use of renewable energy, diversity for a more innovative and adaptable society and optimisation of cycles have become known principles that are used naturally in sustainability and business development for the involved SMEs. The business models and mapping for the circular economy provide a very good platform for continued efforts for a structural transformation that reduces carbon dioxide emissions and reduces fossil dependence.