The first Circular Visions event on 23rd June 2025 at the Hummelnest Accelerator in Graz brought together a dynamic group of experts, entrepreneurs, and innovators for a thought-provoking discussion on sustainability, circularity, and the broader concept of eco-civilisation. The event was hosted by Hummelnest Accelerator in collaboration with CBA.
The session opened with a keynote by Dr. Lučka Kajfež Bogataj, climatologist and former IPCC member, who set a compelling foundation with her data-driven overview of the climate crisis. Her call for urgent, collective action set the tone for a day centered on solutions and collaboration.
Jurij Giacomelli of META Circularity followed with a deep dive into circular business models. Drawing from his investment experience, he emphasized the economic opportunities within circularity, particularly for startups aiming to align profitability with environmental impact.
The panel discussion, moderated by Urška Jež from Transformation Lighthouse, brought together diverse perspectives. Jurij Giacomelli and Karin Huber-Heim of the Circular Economy Forum Austria explored the financial and academic dimensions of circularity. Huber-Heim stressed the importance of systems thinking and education in supporting long-term sustainable transitions.
Looking through holistic lens, Violeta Bulc, curator of the Ecocivilisation movement discussed the intersection of humanity, nature, and innovation. Drawing on her experience as a former European Commissioner, she highlighted the need to reshape our values in tandem with systemic change.
Entrepreneurial insights came from Angie Nagle, founder of BladeBridge, who shared her startup’s mission of repurposing wind turbine blades into functional design products. Her story demonstrated how aesthetics and sustainability can coexist in marketable, innovative solutions.
Verena Krassnig from Raiffeisen Landesbank Steiermark contributed a corporate perspective, showcasing how internal motivation and leadership are critical for embedding sustainability into traditional institutions. She emphasised the importance of bank’s support of the local startup ecosystem.
What made the event particularly effective was its interactive nature. Startups engaged directly with the panel, asking questions and sparking deeper dialogue. The panel extended well beyond its planned duration, a testament to the richness of the discussion.
The event’s dual goals—to inspire Hummelnest’s startups to innovate sustainably and to encourage Raiffeisen Landesbank Steiermark’s engagement with innovators—were clearly advanced. The session left participants energised, with a strong sense of shared purpose and the potential of collective impact.
We extend our thanks to all speakers, participants, and organisers for a session that brought vision and practicality together in the service of a more sustainable future.
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