1 Year
Programme Duration
Cohort
Peer-Based Learning
3
Circular Ambitions Per Participant
Public
Commitment & Accountability
About the Programme
Be a pioneer.
Not a bystander.
The Frontrunners Project is inspired by the Dutch Koplopers programme — a proven model in which businesses publicly commit to concrete circular economy ambitions and work alongside peers and coaches to achieve them.
In Aruba's context, Frontrunners are the businesses that refuse to wait for regulation or market pressure. They act first — redesigning how they source, produce, and recover resources — and in doing so, set the standard for others to follow.
Each cohort brings together a diverse group of companies from across the island. Together they share progress, challenge each other, and prove that a circular economy is not just a vision — it's a competitive advantage.
Circular Ambitions
Each participant defines 3 concrete, measurable CE ambitions for their business — not vague goals, but real commitments with timelines.
Peer Learning
Monthly sessions with fellow frontrunners. Share progress, learn from challenges, and hold each other accountable.
Expert Coaching
Individual guidance from ACEF coaches and circular economy specialists throughout the year.
Public Recognition
Frontrunner status is awarded to graduates — a mark of credibility and leadership in Aruba's business community.
The Journey
How It Works
Apply & Be Selected
Jan – FebBusinesses apply by submitting their motivation and a brief scan of current circular practices. ACEF selects a cohort of 8–12 companies representing a cross-section of Aruba's economy.
Define Your Circular Ambitions
Kick-off — MarchThe programme opens with a two-day kick-off. Each participant works with a coach to define 3 concrete, verifiable circular ambitions they will pursue over the year — covering areas like material flows, waste reduction, product design, or supply chain.
Workshops & Expert Sessions
QuarterlyFour thematic workshops throughout the year: circular business models, material flows & waste, financing circularity, and measuring impact. Guest experts drawn from Aruba, the Caribbean, and the Netherlands.
Peer Learning Sessions
MonthlyMonthly group sessions where frontrunners share progress against their ambitions. Open, honest exchange — what's working, what's stuck, what needs a fresh approach. Facilitated by ACEF coaches.
Individual Coaching
OngoingEach company receives one-on-one coaching sessions to work through specific challenges, adjust their ambitions if needed, and keep momentum between group sessions.
Frontrunner Recognition
End of YearThe cohort presents their achievements at an annual public event. Participating companies that meet their ambitions are awarded Frontrunner status — publicly recognised as leaders in Aruba's circular economy transition.
Eligibility
Who Should Apply?
The Frontrunners Project is for businesses with genuine ambition — not perfection. You don't need to have all the answers. You need the drive to find them.
Registered and operating in Aruba
At least 2 years in operation
Leadership committed to participating actively
Willing to make circular ambitions public
Open to peer feedback and honest reflection
You do NOT need to be a circular business already — pioneers start somewhere
Programme Benefits
What Participants Receive
Personal Coaching
Dedicated one-on-one sessions with an ACEF circular economy coach.
Frontrunner Network
Access to a growing network of circular businesses in Aruba and the Caribbean.
Tools & Resources
Frameworks, templates, and diagnostics to measure and advance your circular transition.
Platform & Visibility
Opportunities to share your story publicly — in media, events, and ACEF communications.
Frontrunner Badge
Formal recognition as a Frontrunner in Aruba's circular economy, awarded at graduation.
International Exposure
Connections to the broader Dutch and Caribbean circular economy ecosystem, including the Koplopers network.