Start-Up Corner at IPI

 As part of our mission to make IPI Great at 40, we take immense pride in the entrepreneurial spirit of our members. Our diverse community spans academia, education, research, manufacturing, design, and services, all contributing to the vast Polymer and Plastics industry.

 While the demand for virgin plastics remains strong, IPI is committed to fostering carbon neutrality, extended producer responsibility, and global certifications. We continue to spotlight key industry challenges, encouraging members to collaborate, share knowledge, and develop sustainable solutions through teamwork and consortia.

 In 2023, IPI published its inaugural Compendium of Green Start-Ups (Share Link here), showcasing ventures engaged in the organized collection, sorting, grading, recycling, and reuse of waste plastics. Early success stories have emerged, particularly with biopolymers, biodegradable packaging alternatives, and bio-enzyme-based recycling technologies.

 Over the next five years, IPI plans to amplify its focus on start-ups and translational research through the Annual Plastics Challenge. Each challenge will tackle real-world industry issues, with leading brands acting as sponsors. Additionally, prominent Government and Private Grant Providers, Seed Funds, and Impact Funds will be involved in the evaluation process.

 Senior IPI members and distinguished industry experts will guide the challenge, offering their valuable insights. We will actively seek participation from our esteemed members, including leading academicians, industry leaders, and policymakers, who will serve as jury members and mentors.

 IPI has formalized a partnership with Somaiya Vidyavihar University – Startups – Research. Innovations. Incubations. Design. Laboratories. (RIIDL), collaborating on the 2025

Challenge is an initial step. Furthermore, the Start-Up Support Committees will curate essential resources and organize periodic events, focusing on:

·        Industry-led problem-solving

·        Knowledge-sharing initiatives

·        Sustainable practices and technologies 

Through these efforts, IPI is dedicated to fostering innovation and sustainability across the plastics industry. 

IPI Start-ups Advisory Council