BRAND-NEW © AkzoNobel
AkzoNobel Launches its Second Global Start-up Challenge AkzoNobel announces the launch of Paint the Future’s second global start-up challenge.
F
ollowing the success of the 2019’s Paint the Future event, on May
Officer. “Our first global start-up challenge was a first for our industry and
18, AkzoNobel launched Paint the Future’s second global start-
our ecosystem has grown amazingly since then to include 2,137 active
up challenge. Start-ups had to submit solutions addressing five
members. It’s a launch pad for great ideas that’s attracted a diverse group
challenge themes:
of start-ups, suppliers, academia and customers.”
• Enhanced functionality;
Those participating will have the chance to accelerate their solutions in
• Customer experience;
the paints and coatings industry and form partnership opportunities and
• Smart application;
investments. The 2019 programs have already resulted in 18 successful
• Circular solutions;
solutions.
• Smart manufacturing and supply chain.
“Our new company strategy is all about building on our strong foundation
Following the launch of the challenge, exploration and enrichment of the
and pioneering ways to grow and innovate,” says AkzoNobel CEO, Thierry
submissions will continue through July 20. Then, select finalists will be
Vanlancker. “That’s why it’s the perfect time for round two of our global
invited to a collaboration event in late 2021, where the challenge winners
start-up challenge. We’re excited to see what potential collaborations the
will be announced.
start-ups have in store for us that will help us bring surfaces to life for our
Paint the Future is led by AkzoNobel and powered by thousands
customers.”
of connections around the world making it the industry’s largest collaborative innovation ecosystem. “Paint the Future is our dedicated ecosystem designed to accelerate
For further information:
innovation in paints and coatings,” says Klaas Kruithof, Chief Technology
www.letspaintthefuture.com/global-challenge-2021
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N. 69 - MAY/JUNE 2021 - international PAINT&COATING magazine
