BlueCity

Located on the banks of the River Maas, in the former tropical swimming paradise Tropicana, BlueCity has transformed into an international icon of the circular economy, a national platform for innovative entrepreneurs, and a regional clubhouse where enterprising Rotterdammers come together to exchange knowledge, build networks and turn ideas into action.

Driving international change through local entrepreneurship

BlueCity’s mission is to give start-ups and scale-ups access to residual materials, knowledge and talent, enabling them to transform ideas into action and grow from intention to impact. Through close collaboration with major corporations, educational institutions and the Municipality of Rotterdam—particularly in living labs that address the challenges of the circular economy—BlueCity accelerates the transition to a new economy by empowering local entrepreneurship with international impact.

12,000 m² of water slides, whirlpools and circular pioneers

Today, more than 30 innovative businesses, including Better Future Factory and Superuse Studios, have established themselves in the former swimming complex. The circular office spaces are home to over 100 entrepreneurs who are changing the world from their desks. In what used to be the changing rooms, the BlueCity Lab develops new materials from living cells and transforms them into market-ready products.

Together, these entrepreneurs and “bioneers” form a thriving ecosystem in which materials, knowledge and experience are continuously shared. One company’s waste becomes another’s resource, closing material loops and creating a tangible example of the circular economy in action.

A former swimming pool transformed into the clubhouse of the circular economy

BlueCity is also an inspiring event venue and an independent platform where Rotterdam’s entrepreneurs, innovators and changemakers meet. Every week, it hosts inspiring and action-oriented programmes focused on sustainability, both online and on-site.

At BlueCity, you can witness the new economy taking shape before your eyes. Not alone, but together. Not just dreaming, but doing.

Rotterdam. Make It Happen.