Grassroots
Grassroots uses design power to achieve system change for the benefit of sustainability and circular practices in the Dutch food system. The project develops a series of Minimum Viable Ecosystems (MVEs) – this are collaborative networks where startups, farmers, researchers, and artists/ designers co-create regenerative value propositions that benefit both people and planet. The goal of the project is to prove that MVEs are a viable strategy for value creation when design power is combined with business power.
Details
About
Minimum Viable Ecosystems represent the smallest viable configuration of actors and processes needed to create value while contributing to systemic transformation. Unlike traditional market approaches, MVEs don’t start from existing markets or value chains, but from a minimal setup designed to enable transitions and generate new collaborative structures. They create space for startups to develop sustainable business models while designers act as architects of change.
Our role
In4Art leads Work Package 3 (MVE Development), focusing on network mapping, identity development for the MVEs, innovation impact creation, and validating the added value of designers in circular ecosystems.
Partners
Wageningen University, RSM Erasmus University, ScaleUp Practitioners, Dutch Design Foundation, East Agency
Duration
Sept 1st, 2025 – December 31st, 2027
Investment
€650.000
Credits
