Ecoembes and its open innovation centre TheCircular Lab have launched the third Circular Packaging Challenge, an international initiative connecting innovative startups with leading companies to address real-world challenges across the packaging value chain.

The initiative is looking for mature, innovative and scalable technologies and business models that can accelerate the transition towards more circular packaging systems.

The four challenges are:

• Challenge 1: Circular materials, ecodesign, flexible packaging, recycled content and alternative coating technologies.
• Challenge 2: Packaging reduction, reuse and refill models, circular logistics and incentive systems.
• Challenge 3: Technologies for identifying, sorting and recovering complex or small-format packaging, as well as solutions for reintroducing recycled materials into new applications.
• Challenge 4: Digital solutions for monitoring packaging throughout its lifecycle and managing reusable and refillable packaging systems.

Just by applying, your solution will be reviewed by the evaluation committee and the participating companies, increasing your visibility and your chances of being considered for business development opportunities, potential collaborations and co-development projects.

In addition, 16 finalists will be invited to the final event in Madrid on 19 November, with travel and accommodation expenses covered by the programme. During the event, they will present their solutions to leading companies, experts and key organisations from across the packaging ecosystem, build valuable connections and explore potential partnerships.

Ecoembes will promote and finance at least two pilot projects. The four challenge winners will also share a total prize pool of EUR 16 000.

Participation is completely free, and the application takes only a few minutes to complete. The deadline is 18 September 2026 at 23:59 CEST, so applying early gives participating companies more time to discover your solution.