Amcor's Amcor Lift-Off Winter 2025/26 Challenge: Unlocking Sustainable Packaging Innovation
Amcor, a global leader in responsible packaging solutions, is launching an exciting initiative to drive sustainable innovation in the packaging industry. The Amcor Lift-Off Winter 2025/26 Challenge invites startups worldwide to collaborate on groundbreaking solutions for more sustainable packaging, reflecting Amcor's commitment to open innovation and circularity.
Building on the success of previous Amcor Lift-Off editions, this challenge focuses on critical research and development priorities for flexible and paper-based packaging. Startups are encouraged to submit solutions addressing one of three key areas:
- Home-compostable Adhesives: Certified adhesives for flexible packaging that offer robust bond strength, regulatory compliance, and compatibility with paper and compostable substrates.
- High-Performance Compostable Oxygen Transmission Rate (OTR) Barriers: Solutions providing exceptional OTR protection for paper packaging, suitable for dispersion coating, and meeting stringent sustainability and regulatory standards.
- Nature-Based Barrier Additives for Film Formulation: Compostable additives significantly enhancing oxygen, moisture, and grease resistance in packaging films, preferably derived from natural products and scalable for commercial use.
The challenge will proceed in three phases:
- Applications: Open online until December 12, 2025 (23:59 CET)
- Screening and Feedback: Through December 19, 2025
- Pitching Day: January 13, 2026 (virtual)
Incorporated companies with a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) above five are encouraged to apply, regardless of prior funding history. Selected startups will present their technologies to Amcor's R&D team, potentially securing joint development opportunities and investments of up to $500,000.
Frank Lehmann, Vice President of Corporate Venturing and Open Innovation at Amcor, emphasizes the company's commitment to circularity and environmental responsibility through collaboration with innovative startups. This initiative builds on the success of previous Amcor Lift-Off programs, fostering partnerships and investments in areas like AI-powered waste analytics, reusable packaging, and bio-based materials.
For more information and to submit applications, visit Amcor Ventures (https://www.amcor.com/ventures/lift-off/challenges).
Amcor, a global leader in responsible packaging solutions, is dedicated to developing sustainable packaging across various materials for nutrition, health, beauty, and wellness categories. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, Amcor aims to solve packaging challenges worldwide, producing flexible packaging, rigid packaging, cartons, and closures that are more sustainable, functional, and appealing for customers and their consumers. Guided by the purpose of elevating customers, shaping lives, and protecting the future, Amcor's commitment to safety and over 75,000 people generates $23 billion in annualized sales from operations spanning over 400 locations in more than 40 countries.
