Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
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:
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- 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.
Click HERE to Apply
Do you need independent help for this application? Click HERE
Disclaimer: Edfrica does not have direct influence nor guarantee the outcome of this application following the support you receive from us
