For a circular economy, the prevention of plastic and electrical and electronic equipment waste is a crucial challenge that is calling for innovative and inclusive solutions. The Innovate2PREVENT programme seeks to inspire and mobilise creative minds from all around the globe to develop innovative, inclusive, and data-driven circular business approaches. It combines an innovation contest with business acceleration and provides a unique opportunity for innovators, environmentalists, and forward thinkers to showcase and advance their innovative solutions.

Innovative solutions will be required to contribute to one of these tracks:

1. Solutions contribute to extending product lifetime, closing resource loops or optimizing resource efficiency through reuse, refurbishment or repair of electrical and electronic equipment
2. Upstream solutions in the plastics value chain that contribute to phasing down single-use plastics, fostering alternatives to plastics and reuse models, contributing to closing material loops, improving recyclability, increasing secondary raw material use, and/or reducing environmental pollution.
3. Solutions contribute to a circular economy by integrating digital solutions and interoperable data models across product life cycle stages and value chains.

The Innovate2PREVENT programme is willing to offer the following financial and non-financial support:

• Peer learning and capacity building on innovative circular business models through Innovation Bootcamps, Masterclasses and one-on-one Coaching Sessions
• Market access support i.e., support in identifying market opportunities and developing strategies for their utilisation
• Communication support, including pitch trainings for investment readiness
• Technical assistance such as (digital) business model trainings, technology workshops, access to testing and prototyping facilities and circular design tools
• Legal and regulatory guidance
• Networking and matchmaking support via the PREVENT network
• Access to PREVENT members as (local) mentors
• Access to information about funding opportunities and requirements
• Priority access to the PREVENT Leadership Training, if suitable
• Seed funding: Up to EUR 9,000 depending on the stage of your innovation and your financial needs.

To apply, please carefully read the Application Guidelines. Interested parties can apply until 5 July 2024 by filling in the Application Form.