Circular economy and disruption in the value chain: The role of stakeholders and networks in startups

This study aims to analyze how stakeholder engagement and network formation contribute to the adoption of the circular economy and to disruption in the value chain of startups, supported by Industry 4.0 technologies. We conducted a systematic literature review of articles published between 2008 and 2024, indexed in the Scopus, Web of Science, and Science Direct databases. A total of 101 articles formed the bibliographic portfolio, analyzed using content analysis methodology. The findings reveal that stakeholder engagement is essential for startups to develop circular business models and contribute to the circular economy, while network interactions enhance circularity and the creation of disruptions in the value chain, particularly in terms of new products. The importance of networks for the creation of collective value is highlighted as a source of encouragement for circular innovation. It was observed that Industry 4.0 technologies support circularity and contribute to network formation by enabling monitored and transparent relationships. This study contributes to theory by revealing the existing relationships between forms of engagement and strategies used by stakeholders, particularly strategic for startups that are more vulnerable. In managerial terms, we provide lessons learned from the results that can assist entrepreneurs in decision-making processes to enhance the creation and experimentation of circular solutions by startups.