​For a growing wave of startups, the circular economy represents one of the most promising, and most difficult, opportunities in climate and consumer innovation. It offers the chance to rethink how materials, packaging, and products move through the economy, unlocking new revenue streams while cutting waste and emissions. But building a circular economy company is about far more than a mission-driven pitch. Success depends on solving real infrastructure problems, proving unit economics at scale, and convincing investors, corporate partners, and consumers alike that circularity can work in practice, not just in theory. ​Founders in this space often face questions without easy answers. How do you build the reverse logistics and collection infrastructure that circularity depends on, especially before you have scale? How do you price a model that competes with cheap, linear alternatives? When does a partnership with a major brand accelerate growth, and when does it become a distraction? And how do you know when to push through the hardest parts of the business versus when it's time to pivot? ​This Thruline Thursday explores the realities of building in the circular economy, from the early validation and infrastructure decisions that shape a company's trajectory to the funding, partnerships, and operational choices that determine whether it scales. We'll dig into the milestones that mattered, the setbacks that reshaped strategy, and the lessons that only come from building. ​Join us for an open conversation with founders, investors, and fund leaders building the circular economy, as we share real stories of what's working, what's failed, and what it actually takes to close the loop.

​US farmers are operating inside increasingly tight constraints. Control over land, water access, chemical inputs, pricing, and distribution has steadily shifted away from those working the soil and toward large systems they rarely influence. ​This session explores the real pressures facing US farmers today. From dependency on chemical inputs and water scarcity to consolidation of power across agricultural supply chains. We’ll look at how these dynamics affect farm viability, decision-making, and long-term resilience. ​Heading into 2026, those pressures become more immediate. Input costs continue to swing, water access is tightening in key regions, financing is more cautious, and margins leave little room for error. Farmers and innovators are responding by adjusting how inputs are used, how soil and water are managed, and how much exposure they carry to brittle supply chains. ​We’ll also discuss regenerative agriculture as a practical response to these conditions as a set of practices that can reduce dependency, restore soil and water systems, and return a measure of control to farmers themselves. ​This is a grounded conversation for people who want to understand what’s actually happening in US agriculture. and what pathways are emerging in response. Join us!

​Expanding into the United States in 2026 will be one of the most strategic moves an international founder can make. Even with political turbulence, regulatory shifts, and a crowded competitive landscape, the U.S. remains the world’s most important launchpad for innovators who want scale, capital, and global credibility. ​Yes, there will be headwinds. Yes, the bar is rising. But the opportunities are massive for teams that prepare early, deploy resources wisely, and build the right relationships before they enter the market. ​This Thruline Thursday brings together experts with decades of hands-on experience guiding companies into the U.S. ecosystem. They’ve built, funded, advised, and scaled mission-driven ventures across SAAS, ConsumerTech, Gaming, ClimateTech, DeepTech, SpaceTech, Circular Economy, and more. They know what works, what doesn’t, and where the opportunities will be in 2026. ​If you’re planning a U.S. entry ​If you support founders who are expanding ​If you want clarity on risk, timing, investment, and strategy ​You want to be in this room. ​We’ll break down what it really takes to enter the U.S. market, how to use the remainder of 2025 to prepare, and how to shape a resilient go-to-market plan that positions you for success on day one. ​Bring your team. Bring your partners. Bring the founders in your network who are eyeing the U.S. in 2026. ​This is the session that will help them step in with confidence, strategy, and the right support behind them.

As the year winds down, the flow of deals and investor activity drops sharply. Founders feel the pressure to end strong, but inboxes are empty and decision-makers are already shifting into holiday mode. ​This Thruline Thursday will explore what founders can actually do during the year-end slowdown. From leveraging downtime for strategic progress to finding the small windows where meaningful deals still get done.

Uncover the potential of crowdfunding for your startup and decide if it's the right path for you! This event will explore the pros and cons of crowdfunding, helping you weigh the benefits against the challenges. Learn about successful crowdfunding strategies, understand the various platforms available, and discover whether this funding approach aligns with your business goals. Gain valuable insights to make an informed decision about leveraging the power of the crowd to fuel your startup's growth. Join us to explore if crowdfunding is your startup’s key to success or if another path might be better suited for your journey. ​ ​This is an active, engaging, and practical conversation where guest speakers, co-hosts, and attendees come together to share insights, opportunities, challenges, and most importantly, solutions. It’s a dynamic space for learning and growth, designed to empower everyone.

This event will offer tactical guidance on financing your climate startup to minimize dilution and optimize your capital stack. We'll provide an overview of non-dilutive financing options, discuss key considerations across capital products, and finish out with an AMA on fundraising more broadly. Hosted by Enduring Planet

Turn your founding vision into a powerful tool for building a cohesive, purpose-driven team. Learn how to effectively communicate your mission and values, attracting talent that resonates with your vision Discover how a clear, shared purpose can drive your team's success and propel your startup forward. ​Mike Melendrez is the founder of Red Circle, a Chicago-based recruiting firm dedicated to helping tech startup founders build purpose-driven teams. With over two decades of industry experience, Mike and his team excel at aligning a founder’s vision with the hiring process to cultivate cohesive and motivated teams. ​Beyond his work at Red Circle, Mike is deeply committed to education and community development.

Transform your online strategy by diving into the key elements of digital success. This event covers how to perform thorough online market research, build a compelling digital presence, and understand the basics of digital marketing. Gain the insights and tools necessary to extend your reach and make an impact online. Deepti Illa is a Marketing Leader with over 20 years of experience at prominent brands such as Google, Salesforce, Cisco, and Intel, as well as pioneering startups like Bunchball and Matterport. Driven by a profound interest in integrating sustainability into every aspect of business and demonstrating the comprehensive economic value of doing good for the planet, she transitioned to climate consulting two years ago.

Discover the importance of an aligned mission and vision and how they can structure your efforts. Use purpose in a practical way to resonate with both your team and your audience. This session will equip you with the tools and mindset needed to build a purpose-driven foundation from the beginning and build over time for long-term success.Jen Derks is an award-winning branding and design expert who leads the team at Four Fin Creative. ​Four Fin focuses on supporting climate tech and sustainable companies with brand strategy, design, and messaging—which helps these important companies build the trust and credibility needed to succeed in today’s competitive landscape and turn their world-saving solutions into reality.

This Wednesday's conversation dives into the essentials of defining a clear purpose for your early-stage organization. Discover the importance of an aligned mission and vision and how they can structure your efforts. Use purpose in a practical way to resonate with both your team and your audience. This session will equip you with the tools and mindset needed to build a purpose-driven foundation from the beginning and build over time for long-term success. Guest Speaker: Jen Derks ​Jen Derks is an award-winning branding and design expert who leads the team at Four Fin Creative. ​Four Fin focuses on supporting climate tech and sustainable companies with brand strategy, design, and messaging—which helps these important companies build the trust and credibility needed to succeed in today’s competitive landscape and turn their world-saving solutions into reality. Four Fin has helped over 100 businesses secure additional funding, land key partnership deals, and attract top talent.