The consortium of the POLREC project is pleased to announce the launch of the POLREC AWARDS 2025, a European competition that seeks to recognise the most outstanding contributions to polymer recycling by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Europe.
The POLREC AWARDS aim to highlight success stories that demonstrate innovation, capacity building and internationalisation in the field of polymer recycling. The competition is open to European SMEs operating in the polymer industry that have participated in European collaborative projects and are willing to share their experience and impact.
Three award categories are available: the Innovation Award, which will distinguish pioneering solutions in polymer recycling; the Training & Upskilling Award, dedicated to initiatives that strengthen workforce competence and readiness; and the Internationalisation Award, which will highlight SMEs that have successfully expanded their recycling solutions beyond European borders.
Each of the three category winners will receive a monetary prize of €6,000 and will be invited to pitch their project live at the POLREC Final Event, taking place at the K Show in Düsseldorf on the 10th of October 2025. During this event, one of the three finalists will also receive a Public Vote Award worth €2,000, based on audience voting. A pitch preparation template will be made available to help them structure their presentation.
Applications are open from 21 July until 25 September 2025. The evaluation of submissions will take place between 26 September and 2 October, and the winners will be notified on the 3rd of October 2025. To receive their prize, winners must attend the K Show and present their success story live.
Interested SMEs are invited to submit their application in PDF format to the following email address: [email protected]. For more information or clarification, please consult the Guide for Applicant (https://www.clustercollaboration.eu/content/polrec-awards-2025-guide-ap…). The POLREC consortium looks forward to receiving inspiring applications from across Europe.
The POLREC AWARDS 2025 represent a unique opportunity for European SMEs to increase their visibility, demonstrate the real impact of their recycling initiatives, and connect with key stakeholders from across the polymer and circular economy value chains. Even if you’re not competing, we warmly invite all stakeholders from the polymer, recycling and circular economy sectors to attend the POLREC Final Event at the K Show. This is a unique opportunity to network, discover cutting-edge solutions and celebrate Europe’s most inspiring SME success stories. Register now at: https://www.centimfe.com/polrec-final-event.html