January 16, 2017
AkzoNobel is launching Imagine Chemistry, an exciting opportunity to partner with start-up firms, students, research
groups and career scientists from across the world to jointly exploit the knowledge of chemistry and solve several real-life
chemistry-related challenges.
The challenge is part of an integrated approach to further deploy AkzoNobel's innovation capability in support of its growth
ambitions. The company believes there is tremendous potential even in mature chemistries, and the challenge aims to tap into that
as well as uncover new opportunities.
Imagine Chemistry, launched in conjunction with KPMG, aims to address a number of specific societal challenges as well as
finding new sustainable opportunities for AkzoNobel businesses.
"Our world is made of molecules and we believe that chemistry, mastering the elements, is essential to making the world a better
place," explained Peter Nieuwenhuizen, RD&I Director for AkzoNobel's Specialty Chemicals business.
"To get there, we believe open innovation will be vital, seeking ideas both internally and externally to advance our technology
and mutually gain from creative thinking. Imagine. with all of our knowledge of chemistry, we can work together to solve some of
life's biggest problems. It's a great opportunity for everyone to get involved."
Imagine Chemistry focuses on finding solutions within the following five areas:
- Revolutionizing plastics recycling
- Wastewater-free chemical sites
- Cellulose-based alternatives to synthetics
- Bio-based and biodegradable surfactants and thickeners
- Bio-based sources of ethylene
In addition, there are "open challenges" for broad ideas in two further areas: Highly reactive chemistry and technology and
Sustainable alternatives to current technologies. All challenges are business-driven and should go commercial in a 3-5 year time
horizon.
A dedicated online challenge platform has been launched, operated by KPMG, where participants can submit
their ideas and solutions. Anyone who registers will get feedback from AkzoNobel chemicals experts.
The challenge will give the winners the chance to see their ideas become a commercial reality. "We will provide access to
customers, investors, subject matter experts, mentorship and an accelerator program, along with additional support. The
collaboration could take on many forms: a joint development agreement, having AkzoNobel as a launch customer, organizing
partnerships, or investing in your startup. Our ultimate goal is to innovate together," Nieuwenhuizen added.
"Imagine Chemistry is just the latest example of the commitment of AkzoNobel to fostering innovation, and also to doing
innovation differently," he added. It follows a recent decision by the company to participate in a €50 million collaborative
venture capital fund, run by Icos Capital, that will focus on investing in early stage chemical and clean technology innovation
start-ups, as well as plans to establish an Open Innovation Center at the AkzoNobel Chemicals Research Facility in Deventer, the
Netherlands.
For more information and to participate in the challenge, visit imaginechemistry.akzonobel.com
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AkzoNobel creates everyday essentials to make people's lives more liveable and inspiring. As a leading global paints and coatings
company and a major producer of specialty chemicals, we supply essential ingredients, essential protection and essential color to
industries and consumers worldwide. Backed by a pioneering heritage, our innovative products and sustainable technologies are
designed to meet the growing demands of our fast-changing planet, while making life easier. Headquartered in Amsterdam, the
Netherlands, we have approximately 45,000 people in around 80 countries, while our portfolio includes well-known brands such as
Dulux, Sikkens, International, Interpon and Eka. Consistently ranked as a leader in sustainability, we are dedicated to energizing
cities and communities while creating a protected, colorful world where life is improved by what we do.
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