Submission window:   1st August – 31th October 2026 

Format: Call for solutions + online pitching session

Pitching session: 26th November 2026 (online) 

ECOFUNC is building an ecosystem where disruptive materials and circular solutions don’t stay in the lab, they find the right partners, get tested fast, and move closer to market through real collaboration. 

Vanguard Partner

For Materials Challenge 1, we are teaming up with Avient Corporation, a recognised innovator in polymer additives, colorants and masterbatch solutions, to scout breakthrough technologies from the wider market and connect them to industrial reality. 

The challenges

We are looking for solutions in three broad areas, keep them bold, adaptable, and ready for discussion: 

1. Mechanical recycling additives and technologies 

Additives, technology and enablers that make mechanical recycling work better, especially with difficult, mixed, or impure feedstocks: odour reduction, compatibilizers, process stabilisers, performance boosters, etc. 

ECOFUNC_Materials challenge_Mechanical recycling additives and technologies Download

2. Barrier technology for packaging 

Next-generation barrier approaches: moisture barrier, gas barrier, and barrier performance upgrades that enable more circular packaging concepts. 

ECOFUNC_Materials challenge _Barrier solutions for innovative packagingDownload

3. PFAS replacement 

Safer, scalable alternatives that can replace traditional PFAS functionality in thermoplastics while maintaining performance needs and supporting compliance and sustainability pathways. Think of processing aids to eliminate melt fracture and enable higher processing rates, water repellents, lubricants, and more.  

ECOFUNC_Materials Challenge_A new generation of PFAS-free polymer processing aidsDownload

Who can apply? 

If you have a solution – you can apply. 

Start-ups, scale-ups, SMEs, corporates, research organisations, universities, independent inventors and innovation teams are all welcome. 

What you get

  • PoC / pilot collaboration with Avient 
  • Visibility inside the ECOFUNC innovation ecosystem and networks.  

How it works 

We are running this challenge in a fast, focused format:  

  1. Submit your solution (during the submission window) 
  1. Shortlisting using a lightweight scoring approach: Relevance / Feasibility / Novelty 
  1. Online pitching session (selected solution providers)  
  1. Follow‑up with clear next steps 

Do you have a solution for us?

Apply (starting from 1st of August 2026)

And if you have any question – this is your moment: info@ecofunc.eu