Get ready for a game-changer in sustainable packaging! Amcor, a global packaging pioneer, is taking the lead with its Amcor Lift-Off Winter 2025/26 Challenge. This initiative is a call to action for startups worldwide to collaborate and innovate, aiming to revolutionize the packaging industry with more sustainable solutions.
But here's where it gets exciting: Amcor's commitment to open innovation and circularity is at the heart of this challenge. Building on past successes, which included partnerships with cutting-edge companies in AI-powered waste analytics and reusable packaging, Amcor is now focusing on critical research and development areas for flexible and paper-based packaging.
The challenge is threefold:
Home-compostable Adhesives: Amcor seeks robust, certified home-compostable adhesives for flexible packaging that meet regulatory standards and are compatible with paper and compostable materials.
High-Performance Compostable OTR Barriers: Solutions that provide exceptional oxygen transmission rate (OTR) protection for paper packaging, suitable for dispersion coating, and meeting strict sustainability and regulatory guidelines are in demand.
Nature-based Barrier Additives: Compostable additives that enhance oxygen, moisture, and grease resistance in packaging films, preferably derived from natural products and scalable for commercial use, are the focus of this area.
The Amcor Lift-Off Winter 2025/26 Challenge will unfold in three phases:
Applications: Open online until December 12, 2025 (23:59 CET).
Screening and Feedback: From December 13 to 19, 2025, with feedback provided.
Pitching Day: January 13, 2026 (virtual), where selected startups will present their technologies to Amcor's R&D team.
Incorporated companies with a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) above five are encouraged to apply, regardless of funding history. The potential rewards are significant, with joint development opportunities and potential investments of up to $500,000 on the table.
"As a global leader, we're proud to drive circularity through innovative, sustainable solutions," says Frank Lehmann, Vice President of Corporate Venturing and Open Innovation at Amcor. "The Lift-Off initiative has proven successful, and we're eager to continue this momentum. With our new challenge, we reaffirm our dedication to advancing circularity and environmental responsibility through collaboration with the brightest startup minds."
For more details on Amcor Lift-Off and the Winter 2025/26 Challenge, or to submit your startup's application, visit Amcor Ventures (https://www.amcor.com/ventures/lift-off/challenges).
Amcor's mission is to lead the way in responsible consumer packaging and dispensing solutions, and this challenge is a testament to their commitment. Will this initiative spark a revolution in sustainable packaging? We invite you to join the conversation and share your thoughts in the comments!
