A new Erasmus+ project is set to revolutionize the small service sector by equipping future entrepreneurs with the skills needed to thrive in a circular economy powered by artificial intelligence.

The SMART CIRCLE project (KA220-VET-66A13E5B) is a groundbreaking initiative to design, develop, test, and promote innovative Vocational Education and Training (VET) pedagogy and resources. The project focuses on empowering VET learners, including future workforce members and nascent entrepreneurs in the small tourism and retail sectors, with crucial SMART and CIRCULAR entrepreneurship skills. This will enable them to actively contribute to the transition towards a circular economy while effectively leveraging human-centric AI in their businesses.

Bridging the Gap Between Circularity and AI

Small service businesses play a vital role in local economies, and their transition to circular practices is essential for a sustainable future. SMART CIRCLE recognizes the transformative potential of AI in facilitating this transition. The project will develop innovative digital VET training tools that demonstrate how readily available AI tools can positively impact small service companies' performance and boost their circularity.

Key Project Activities:

• Development of innovative digital VET training tools showcasing the impact of customer-ready AI tools on small service businesses and their circularity.
• Creation and validation of a new VET Curriculum and high-quality multimedia training resources covering key competence areas for a smart and circular mindset in the small service sector.
• Development, testing, maintenance, and dissemination of highly effective SMART CIRCLE Open Educational Resources (OERs) to accelerate circular transitioning and AI adoption in the small service sector.

Expected Outcomes: A Ripple Effect of Change

SMART CIRCLE anticipates a range of impactful results, including:

• SMART CIRCLE e-Database: A comprehensive collection of 120 AI tools specifically curated for the small service sector.
• Circular Roadmap Planning Tools: Practical tools to guide small service businesses in developing and implementing circular strategies.
• VET Curriculum and Digital Stories: A cutting-edge curriculum complemented by real-life digital stories showcasing successful circular roadmaps and AI tool utilization in small service companies.
• SMART CIRCLE e-Llab: An interactive online learning environment.

Empowering Learners and Educators:

The project will directly benefit VET learners by improving their skills in smart and circular entrepreneurship and motivating them to become active agents in accelerating the circular transition through AI adoption. VET teachers will also benefit from enhanced competencies in delivering innovative training for smart and circular entrepreneurship.

A Collaborative Partnership for Success:

SMART CIRCLE brings together a diverse consortium of partners from across Europe, including:

• Torsbergsgymnasiet, Sweden (Coordinator)
• Spektrum Educational Center, Romania
• Tradigenia, Spain
• Yasar University, Turkey
• Inthecity, Netherlands
• DEX IC, Czech Republic

Looking Ahead:

The project, which runs from October 1, 2024, to March 31, 2027, is funded by the Erasmus+ KA220 VET Cooperation partnerships program. SMART CIRCLE is poised to make a significant contribution to the future of entrepreneurship by fostering a generation of professionals equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities of a circular economy powered by AI. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting project!