SpecialChem has partnered with the World Materials Forum (WMF) to accept applications on their behalf for their 2020 Startup Challenge.
What is the WMF Startup Challenge & Award?
The WMF Startup Challenge is an opportunity to present innovative and impactful solutions to use materials smarter, less and longer from all around the world in one of the following topics:
1.) New materials offering higher functionality (better surface aspects, no toxicity, product usage rate), lower costs, and/or fully recyclability
2.) New processes whether digital (AI, IoT, sensors…) or non-digital process (3D, CO2-free electrolysis, spintronics…)
3.) All types of application such as:
a.) Fuel cell/Hydrogen
b.) EV batteries
c.) Body light-weighting (aeronautics, automotive)
d.) Thermal insulation
e.) Data storage
f.) Energy management
g.) Data protection
h.) Water treatment
i.) Waste reduction
j.) Recycling or reuse
Each applicant will be entitled to apply for one single project.
Between 12 and 18 nominees will be designated by the jury beginning of April and each nominated company will receive a package including a free booth at Hôtel de Ville de Nancy during the three days of World Materials Forum 2020 and free transportation, accommodation and WMF registration for the company CEO.
The package also includes the shooting of a professional one-minute pitch video presenting the nominee’s company and its breakthrough innovation.
a.) Among the nominees, a winner will be designated by the jury during WMF in June and the 50,000 euros Grand Prix award will be handed out to the winning company CEO by the Jury Chairman, Victoire de Margerie.
b.) A second company will be designated by the jury and the Coup de Coeur award of 20,000 euros will be handed out to this other company by Stéphane Mangin
The jury might decide to designate other companies for special mentions and additional awards in kind or in cash might be awarded by other jury members.
Why submit your application through SpecialChem?
Submitting your application through SpecialChem will give you an additional exposure of your non-confidential presentation through our websites, in our newsletters, and through SpecialChem social media channels.
Plus, we will give you the opportunity to host a short 3-minute video on our website to promote your non-confidential information. Further, should you win the challenge; we will publish an article or case study for your innovation.
Am I eligible to apply?
If you are a startup with less than 50 permanent staff and proven economic viability, seize your chance to win a 50,000 euro prize for your breakthrough innovation in one of the above-mentioned areas.
How do I apply?
Applicants should submit a 5-page maximum PDF presentation that includes a description of their breakthrough innovation, a simplified three-year business plan, and information related to the company structure including capital and shareholding information.
Timeline
1.) Opening: 15 November 2019
2.) Deadline to apply: 16 February 2020
3.) Selection of nominees: Jury meeting to be held in Paris during March 2020
4.) Announcement of nominees: to be made during the 1st week of April 2020
5.) Presentation of nominees and announcement of Awards: 10 June 2020 during WMF Gala Dinner
Sent email here.
