Startups building innovative waste-management solutions now have a major opportunity to scale globally. Ecoembes, through The Circular Lab, has launched the Open Call for Waste Management Startups 2026 — an international innovation challenge designed to identify, support, and accelerate breakthrough ideas that can transform how cities manage waste.
The programme seeks African, European, Asian, American, and global innovators offering solutions that can improve urban waste processes or enhance operational efficiency in waste-sorting plants. Finalists will pitch live in Madrid and gain direct exposure to partners driving the circular economy worldwide.
Why This Matters
Urban waste remains one of the fastest-growing environmental challenges globally, especially across Africa’s rapidly growing cities. The Open Call provides African waste-tech founders with access to:
European markets
High-level networks in sustainability
Pilot project opportunities
Visibility within the global circular economy ecosystem
This programme offers not just recognition, but real pathways to scale.
What the Open Call Is Looking For
Ecoembes is calling for startups addressing two core challenge areas:
1. Optimising Urban Waste Management
Solutions that improve waste processes from end-to-end, including:
Citizen waste generation
Smart collection
Containerisation
Transport optimisation
Digital traceability
2. Enhancing Efficiency in Waste-Sorting Plants
Innovations focused on:
Waste reception
Classification and segregation
Automation
Digitalisation
Operational traceability
Startups can apply to either challenge.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, startups must:
Be a legally established company (commercial or social enterprise)
Have been incorporated after 15 October 2015 (under 10 years old)
Not have more than 50% ownership by a non-SME
Be compliant with tax, labour, and regulatory laws
This open call welcomes applications from Africa and all other global regions.
Benefits for Selected Startups
Participants and finalists will gain:
€2,000 prize for the winner of each challenge area
Potential pilot or proof-of-concept projects with Ecoembes and industry partners
Networking opportunities with global waste-management leaders and public institutions
International media recognition and visibility
Entry into the goCircular Radar community
Pitching opportunity at the Foro de las Ciudades 2026 in Madrid (June 9–11, 2026)
This exposure can significantly accelerate market expansion for African startups.
Timeline / How the Program Works
Submit Application via the official online portal
Selection of Finalists based on innovation, feasibility, and market impact
Live Pitch Event in Madrid during Foro de las Ciudades 2026
Possible pilots with Ecoembes in real operational environments
