Samuel Alonso

🌍 Packaging circularity startups — this could be your opportunity to pilot your solution with leading companies across the packaging value chain. Applications are now open for the Circular Packaging Challenge 2026, an international open innovation initiative by Ecoembes and TheCircularLab designed to help startups test, validate and scale innovative solutions that advance packaging circularity. The challenge brings together nearly 30 leading companies from sectors such as food, beverages, dairy, beauty, home care, retail, toys and foodservice, including Angulas Aguinaga, DAMM, KH Lloreda, L’Oréal, Mattel, McDonald’s, Nestlé and SPB Global Corporation, among others. Selected startups can access: 📈 Co-development and business generation opportunities 🧪 Pilot projects in real environments 🎤 The chance to pitch at the final event in Madrid on 19 November 2026 🏆 €16,000 in prizes distributed among the winners of the different challenges 🌍 International visibility, recognition and media exposure The four finalist startups from each challenge area will be invited to the final event in Madrid, where they will pitch their solutions in front of leading companies, investment funds and other relevant stakeholders from the circular packaging ecosystem. The challenge is looking for solutions across four key areas: ♻️ Challenge 1 — new circular packaging solutions, including ecodesign, flexible packaging, recycled materials and alternative coatings. 🔁 Challenge 2 — new packaging management models, including reduction, reuse, circular logistics and incentive systems. ⚙️ Challenge 3 — technologies to improve sorting, separation, identification and recovery of complex or small-format packaging. 🔗 Challenge 4 — digital solutions to monitor packaging across the value chain, including lifecycle data capture and refillable packaging management systems. If your startup was founded less than 10 years ago, this is for you. 📅 Application deadline: 18 September 2026, 23:59 CET 🔗 Apply here: https://packagingchallenge.thecircularlab.com/en/home/