01 February 2022 @ 17.34pm | Dan Wilson
Amazon in Europe has launched a new programme to encourage and mentor the creators of sustainable and environmentally minded products for consumers through its already successful accelerator Launchpad scheme.
The new focus on sustainability speaks to Amazon’s planet saving pledge to be as green minded as possible with a keen focus on developing sustainable packing in particular.
Amazon unveiled its “Climate Pledge” in 2019 and is committed to be carbon neutral by 2040. In June 2021, Amazon said it expects to operate entirely on clean energy by 2025 and that is five years ahead of the goal initially stated in the Climate Pledge.
Led by Amazon and EIT Climate-KIC the idea is to find European startups in their early stages developing products designed to help people live more sustainably. The idea is to bring these environmental products to market more quickly and effectively.
Aditi Singh, General Manager, Amazon Launchpad, Europe said of the new progamme: “We created the Amazon Launchpad Sustainability Accelerator specifically to support the entrepreneurs of the future who are developing ground-breaking sustainability-focused products. We are looking for startups with sustainable innovations and bold ambitions to grow and ultimately help their customers around the world make more sustainable choices in the products they buy. Applications are open now, and we welcome brands who want to take their business to the next level and fast-track their growth to apply today.”
A grant of £10,000 will be given to every startup, as well as US$25,000 worth of AWS Activate Credits and £5,000 sponsored Amazon Advertising. Winners will also have access to office space at Amazon’s London headquarters. The deadline for applications is 25 March 2022.
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