Startups are about to explore a world of possibilities in the paints and coatings industry, says AkzoNobel, when Paint the Future’s second global startup challenge launches May 18. Led by AkzoNobel, Paint the Future is the industry’s largest collaborative innovation ecosystem, according to the company.
All participating startups can accelerate their solutions by leveraging AkzoNobel’s "passion for paint, expertise, knowledge, resources and connections." Some will find even more doors opened for them in the form of partnership opportunities and investments, according to the company.
The 2021 program builds on 2019’s Paint the Future launch event, two regional startup challenges in Brazil and China, two supplier programs and other AkzoNobel collaborations. These programs have reportedly already resulted in 18 successful solutions.
Startups will be invited to submit solutions addressing five challenge themes:
- Enhanced functionality
- Customer experience
- Smart application
- Circular solutions
- Smart manufacturing and supply chain
Following the May 18 launch, exploration and enrichment of the submissions will continue through July 20. Select finalists will be invited to a collaboration event in late 2021 where the challenge winners will be announced.
For more information, visit: www.letspaintthefuture.com