Ecoembes has opened applications for its 2026 Waste Management Startups Open Call through The Circular Lab. This international innovation program aims to discover, nurture, and fast-track pioneering concepts that could revolutionize urban waste management systems.
Read more about Opportunities
The initiative welcomes innovators from Africa, Europe, Asia, America, and beyond who are developing solutions to enhance city waste operations or boost efficiency in waste-sorting facilities. Selected finalists will present their innovations in Madrid and connect directly with key players advancing the circular economy globally.
The Significance
Global urban waste continues to grow at an alarming rate, particularly in Africa’s expanding cities. For African waste-technology entrepreneurs, this Open Call opens doors to:
- Entry into European commercial markets.
- Connections with top sustainability networks.
- Opportunities to launch pilot initiatives.
- Prominence within the worldwide circular economy landscape.
The program delivers concrete scaling opportunities beyond simple recognition.
Target Innovation Areas
Ecoembes seeks startups tackling two primary challenge categories:
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Improving Urban Waste Management Systems
Solutions enhancing waste handling across the complete chain, encompassing:
- Consumer waste production.
- Intelligent collection systems.
- Container solutions.
- Transportation efficiency.
- Digital tracking capabilities.
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-
Boosting Waste-Sorting Plant Performance
Technologies targeting:
- Waste intake processes.
- Sorting and separation.
- Automated systems.
- Digital transformation.
- Operational monitoring.
Applications may be submitted for one challenge category.
Qualification Requirements
Eligible startups must:
- Operate as a registered legal entity (for-profit or social enterprise).
- Have been founded after 15 October 2015 (less than 10 years in operation).
- Maintain under 50% ownership by non-SME entities.
- Demonstrate compliance with taxation, employment, and legal requirements.
Applications are accepted from Africa and all global territories.
Advantages for Chosen Startups
Selected participants and finalists receive:
- €2,000 award for each challenge category winner.
- Opportunity to implement pilot or proof-of-concept initiatives with Ecoembes and sector partners.
- Access to international waste-management experts and government organizations.
- Global media exposure and profile elevation.
- Inclusion in the goCircular Radar network.
- Platform to pitch at Foro de las Ciudades 2026 in Madrid (June 9–11, 2026).
These benefits can substantially accelerate international growth for African startups.
Register to attend the CN Business Mixer
Program Structure
- Application submission through the designated online platform.
- Finalist selection evaluated on innovation quality, practicality, and market potential.
- In-person pitch presentations in Madrid at Foro de las Ciudades 2026.
- Potential pilot implementation with Ecoembes in actual operational settings.
Application Deadline January 31, 2026
Click HEREÂ to apply.
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