Amcor lift-off shortlists startups for compostable packaging innovation

UK – Amcor, a global leader in sustainable packaging, has announced the selection of four startups from the U.S. and the U.K. for its latest Lift-Off competition. 

The shortlisted innovators are now set to collaborate with Amcor’s research and development team, with the potential to secure up to US$500,000 in funding and technical support to refine their solutions.

In a statement, Frank Lehmann, Vice President of Corporate Venturing and Open Innovation at Amcor, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative:

 “We’re energized by the creativity and commitment these innovators bring. Their technologies show strong promise in meeting the demands of moisture-sensitive applications while advancing our sustainability goals.” 

The selected startups, each at varying stages of development, presented unique approaches to enhancing moisture protection in fiber-based and other compostable packaging, a key hurdle in sustainable packaging innovation.

The Lift-Off Sprints program, part of Amcor’s broader Lift-Off initiative launched in 2022, serves as an open-call platform to foster early-stage startups focused on groundbreaking packaging technologies. 

According to Amcor, the program emphasizes solving specific R&D challenges through technical collaborations. 

The shortlisted startups will now undergo rigorous evaluations, including technical trials and potential joint development agreements, to bring their solutions closer to market.

Lehmann emphasized the broader vision, stating, “Amcor Lift-Off is more than a funding mechanism, it’s a gateway to long-term partnerships. Our ambition is to be the go-to partner for packaging innovation, connecting with the brightest minds in the startup ecosystem.” 

Past Lift-Off rounds have yielded successful collaborations in areas like nanocoatings, AI-driven waste recognition, and plant-based chemical conversion, underscoring the program’s impact.

Recent developments highlight Amcor’s ongoing commitment to sustainability. In early 2025, the company extended the application deadline for its Lift-Off Sprints challenge, inviting more innovators to propose compostable or recyclable barrier coatings. 

Additionally, Amcor reported achieving 10% post-consumer recycled content in its portfolio in 2024, a year ahead of schedule, reinforcing its leadership in circular economy initiatives.

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