AkzoNobel recently announced that its second Paint the Future's global startup challenge will launch May 18. Participating startups can reportedly look forward to accelerating their solutions in the paints and coatings industry, while some will find even more doors opened for them in the form of partnership opportunities and investments.

"Our new company strategy is all about building on our strong foundation and pioneering ways to grow and innovate," said Thierry Vanlancker, AkzoNobel CEO. "That's why it's the perfect time for round two of our global startup challenge. We're excited to see what potential collaborations the startups have in store for us that will help us bring surfaces to life for our customers."

The 2021 program builds on the success of the 2019's Paint the Future launch event, two regional startup challenges in Brazil and China, two supplier programs, and other AkzoNobel collaborations. These programs have resulted in 18 successful solutions.

"Paint the Future is our dedicated ecosystem designed to accelerate innovation in paints and coatings," said Klaas Kruithof, chief technology officer. "Our first global startup challenge was a first for our industry and our ecosystem has grown amazingly since then to include 2,137 active members. It's a launch pad for great ideas that's attracted a diverse group of startups, suppliers, academia and customers."

Startups will be invited to submit solutions addressing five challenge themes:

• Enhanced functionality
• Customer experience
• Smart application
• Circular solutions
• Smart manufacturing and supply chain

Following the May 18 launch, exploration and enrichment of the submissions will continue through July 20. Select finalists will then be invited to a collaboration event in late 2021, where the challenge winners will be announced.

To find additional information on the 2021 global startup challenge, including the submission process, visit www.letspaintthefuture.com/global-challenge-2021.