Amazon Sustainability Accelerator
Are you a sustainable start-up looking to maximise your impact?
We want to support you! We are looking for start-ups that are developing innovative solutions to the world's most challenging sustainability issues.
![Sustainability Accelerator](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/G/30/Sell/Amazon_Cannon_AcceleratorDay2186.jpg)
What is the Amazon Sustainability Accelerator?
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Designed for start-ups tackling sustainability challenges
The Amazon Sustainability Accelerator is an equity-free programme supporting start-ups who are driving sustainable innovation. We’re here to help entrepreneurs to grow their skills and scale their businesses so they can maximise their climate impact.
We create accelerators focused on various sustainability verticals, such as circular economy, recycling technology and more sustainable consumer products.
We create accelerators focused on various sustainability verticals, such as circular economy, recycling technology and more sustainable consumer products.
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What we aim to achieve
We create impactful programmes for entrepreneurs to launch sustainable products, services and technologies. We do this by accelerating start-ups with Amazon and AWS's expertise and network.
In doing so, the accelerator can also act as a facilitator for Amazon to work with the world’s leading sustainability innovations pioneered by start-ups across the UK and Europe.
In doing so, the accelerator can also act as a facilitator for Amazon to work with the world’s leading sustainability innovations pioneered by start-ups across the UK and Europe.
Onze 2024-programma's
![ClimateTech](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/G/30/Sell/Amazon_cannon_AcceleratorDemoDay_250.jpg)
Amazon ClimateTech Pilot Challenge
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Backed by expertise
We work with leading industry experts to collaborate on designing bespoke accelerators. This includes Europe’s leading climate innovation agency, EIT Climate-KIC, and innovation strategy consultations, Founders Intelligence.
What are the benefits?
Monetary grants
Access cash and Amazon credit benefits to boost your business growth.
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Specialised mentorship
Connect with experts in start-up growth, climate innovation and industry-specific verticals.
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Tailored curriculum
Experience workshops,bootcamps and hear from expert speakers; covering a range of topics from business fundamentals to industry-specific challenges.
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Flexibility
Access this programme from across the European Economic Area, the United Kingdom, or Switzerland, with virtual accessible options alongside several in-person weeks.
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Climate Impact Assessment
Understand the climate impact potential of your business, develop strategies to maximise it and receive external validation.
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Events & Community
Connect with and learn from leading innovators at events like Mentor Day and Demo Day during the accelerator programme, as well as alumni and network events after graduation.
Our programmes for 2024
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The ClimateTech Pilot Challenge
Key Details
What are we looking for?
The Amazon Pilot Challenge is looking for innovative European climate-tech start-ups that can pilot their technology with Amazon, as it works to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040; enhancing packaging solutions, circularity, efficiency in buildings. Start-ups should be in a position where they have moved beyond prototype testing and are working towards generating initial revenue and growing operations (Tech Readiness Level 6 and above). See FAQ ‘What type of company should apply?’ for more details.
How does it work and what are the benefits?
Selected start-ups will participate in an intense 4-week accelerator with Amazon, and pitch for the chance to secure a pilot with Amazon. Successful start-ups selected will work jointly with Amazon to scope a pilot proposal. A typical pilot for emerging technologies can range from $50K–$2M, depending on duration and scope. This range is provided for illustration only and actual offer(s) of funding, if any, are at Amazon's sole discretion. Selected start-ups will also receive a £1.5k cash grant to support travel and accommodation costs, $10k AWS Activate Credits, business coaching and more.
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This is for start-ups that provide
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Buildings Solutions
Amazon seeks solutions that can optimise energy consuming processes, reduce emissions and transition towards sustainable practices.
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Circular Economy Solutions
Amazon seeks solutions that can extend the lifetime of products. These solutions range from reverse logistics optimization to repair capabilities accessible to end users.
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Packaging Solutions
Amazon seeks solutions that can support reusable e-commerce packaging systems. These include innovative packaging materials, and closed-loop reusable systems technology.
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What you could unlock
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Pilot your technology with Amazon
The opportunity to pilot your technology or solution with Amazon, which could open the path to future partnerships and growth opportunities!
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An introduction to the Climate Pledge Fund
The Climate Pledge Fund is a $2 billion dollar, corporate venture programme that invests in companies accelerating Amazon’s path to meeting the commitments of The Climate Pledge.
Amazon Sustainability Accelerator Benefits
Access cash grants, AWS credits, one years’ free Amazon Business Prime membership, mentorship connections, industry networking opportunities, Climate Impact support and more.
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The process
![Sustainability Accelerator Timeline](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/G/02/sell/images/EN_TECH_HORIZONTAL.png)
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Selectiecommissie start-ups
![Phoebe Wang](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/G/02/amazonlaunchpad/UK/Project/ALSA/Updated/SkyDeck_2017_02_3388-modified.png)
Phoebe Wang
Investment Partner, Climate Pledge Fund
Investment Partner, Climate Pledge Fund
![Zak Watts](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/G/02/sell/images/Zak_Watt.png)
Zak Watts
Director, EU Sustainability, Amazon
Director, EU Sustainability, Amazon
![Ben Honan](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/G/02/sell/images/Ben_Honan.png)
Ben Honan
Investment Lead, EIT
Climate-KIC
Investment Lead, EIT
Climate-KIC
![Sebastian Pashaei](https://app.growthmentor.com/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsibWVzc2FnZSI6IkJBaHBBcTVlIiwiZXhwIjpudWxsLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--91f360af3cbaa0fccb6267735d2d127932e2a12d/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsibWVzc2FnZSI6IkJBaDdCem9MWm05eWJXRjBTU0lJY0c1bkJqb0dSVlE2RW5KbGMybDZaVjkwYjE5bWFYUmJCMmtDTEFGcEFpd0IiLCJleHAiOm51bGwsInB1ciI6InZhcmlhdGlvbiJ9fQ==--7df52312c78b0d761c82d554707ffd70ebc97f31/hyperbadge_spashaei%20(1).png)
Sebastian Pashaei
Head of EU Customer Fulfilment Sustainability, Amazon
Head of EU Customer Fulfilment Sustainability, Amazon
Thais Blumer
Head of EU Sustainable Packaging, Amazon
Head of EU Sustainable Packaging, Amazon
Chris Atkins
Director, WW Operations Sustainability, Amazon
Director, WW Operations Sustainability, Amazon
![Sandra Steving Villega](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/G/02/sell/images/SSV_Headshot.jpg)
Sandra Steving Villegas
Partner, Founders Intelligence
Partner, Founders Intelligence
Frequently asked questions
What is the Amazon Sustainability Accelerator?
The Amazon Sustainability Accelerator is a growth programme for driving sustainable innovation. Each year, we build accelerators around different sustainability verticals, such as circular economy, recycling technology and sustainable consumer products. The pilot challenge is an intense 4 week programme designed to help start-ups partner with corporates, with a focus on working with Amazon. We have three main themes in 2024 – circular economy, packaging and buildings.
What types of Building solutions is Amazon looking for?
Amazon seeks solutions that can optimise energy-consuming processes, reduce emissions and transition towards sustainable practices. We are looking at technologies such as AI, Geothermal/ HVAC, Building Materials and DC Microgrids.
What types of Packaging solutions is Amazon looking for?
Amazon seeks solutions that can support reusable e-commerce delivery packaging systems. These include innovative packaging materials, and closed-loop reusable systems technology, that are adaptable to Amazon’s size and scale.
What types of Circular Economy solutions is Amazon looking for?
Amazon seeks solutions that can extend the lifetime of products that customers already own. We are looking (but not limited) at technologies such: AI, Repair Solutions, Material Circularity for Batteries, Reparability and Durability of products, and Reverse Logistics optimisation.
What type of company should apply?
Start-ups should:
• Be in a position where they have moved beyond prototype testing and are working towards generating initial revenue and growing operations (TRL 6 and above).
• Be registered in the European Economic Area, the United Kingdom, or Switzerland
• Have technology that is relevant to the subject areas identified
• Have technology that is scalable. Amazon will only fund technologies that have the potential to significantly decrease carbon emissions and/or reduce impacts beyond carbon and reduce operating expenses.
• Have technology that has the potential to make a global impact. Amazon strongly prefers projects that apply to all markets, geographies, supply types, etc.
• The accelerator is open to companies registered in the European Economic Area, the United Kingdom, or Switzerland and will be based both in-person in London, UK and through virtual online sessions.
• Agree and comply with official Terms & Conditions and other policies associated with the Pilot Challenge Programme.
Amazon is not seeking project developers selling third-party products, companies without an operating prototype, consulting firms, marketing or PR agencies, or acquired start-ups.
• Be in a position where they have moved beyond prototype testing and are working towards generating initial revenue and growing operations (TRL 6 and above).
• Be registered in the European Economic Area, the United Kingdom, or Switzerland
• Have technology that is relevant to the subject areas identified
• Have technology that is scalable. Amazon will only fund technologies that have the potential to significantly decrease carbon emissions and/or reduce impacts beyond carbon and reduce operating expenses.
• Have technology that has the potential to make a global impact. Amazon strongly prefers projects that apply to all markets, geographies, supply types, etc.
• The accelerator is open to companies registered in the European Economic Area, the United Kingdom, or Switzerland and will be based both in-person in London, UK and through virtual online sessions.
• Agree and comply with official Terms & Conditions and other policies associated with the Pilot Challenge Programme.
Amazon is not seeking project developers selling third-party products, companies without an operating prototype, consulting firms, marketing or PR agencies, or acquired start-ups.
How can I apply?
Apply to the Pilot Challenge by registering your interest and completing the application form. To enable resource planning for the Pilot Challenge, applications will open from March 04 2024. Applications will be reviewed internally from April to May. Successful applicants will be invited to provide further information. Applications will close on April 05.
How long does the Pilot Challenge last?
Start-ups that apply and are selected will feature in an intense 4-week accelerator. During this time, start-ups will learn about Amazon’s internal processes and needs. At the end of the 4-week accelerator, start-ups will pitch for the opportunity to pilot with Amazon. Successful start-ups, alongside internal Amazon teams, will then embark on a longer validation period to finalise details of their pilot.
Do I need to relocate myself?
No, the accelerator will be operated in a hybrid manner (mixing online and in-person support) allowing you to benefit from face-to-face support when you most need it, while having the flexibility and ease to participate in activities online. However, please note that week’s 1 (20.5.2024 – 24.5.2024) and 18.6.2024 will be in person in London.
How many start-ups will take part in the Challenge?
Approximately 15 start-ups will participate in the 4-week accelerator Challenge, split equally across the 3 programme verticals: Buildings (5), Packaging (5) and Circular Economy (5). Each start-up will pitch their solution to win the chance to pilot with Amazon; 1-2 start-ups from each programme vertical will be selected.
Will Amazon be charging for start-ups to join the programme?
The programme is free and Amazon does not take equity.
Is a pilot with Amazon guaranteed?
A pilot with Amazon is not guaranteed. A typical pilot budget for emerging technologies can range from $50k-$2MM, depending on duration and scope (e.g., feasibility studies, prototype testing, etc.) necessary to determine key performance indicators. This range is provided for illustration only and actual offer(s) of funding, if any, is at Amazon's sole discretion.
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Consumer Product Programme
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Key Details
What are we looking for
We are interested in supporting early-stage start-ups developing sustainable and innovative physical consumer products that have recently launched or are on the cusp of go-to-market.
How does it work and what are the benefits?
Selected start-ups will benefit from a 10-week accelerator, a £10k/€12k cash grant, $10k AWS Activate Credits, mentorship and much more. The programme is hybrid, including virtual sessions and in-person events; with three key in-person weeks across key European sustainability hubs - Berlin, Amsterdam and London.
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The process
![Sustainability Accelerator Timeline](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/G/02/sell/images/EN_PRODUCT_HORIZONTAL.png)
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Start-up selection committee
![Kirsty Macdonald](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/G/02/sell/images/Kirsty_Macdonald.png)
Kirsty Macdonald
Investment
Principal, JamJar
Investment
Principal, JamJar
![Ishna Berry](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/G/02/sell/images/Ishna_Berry.png)
Ishna Berry
Head of EU Marketplace Sustainability, Amazon
Head of EU Marketplace Sustainability, Amazon
![Janeva Morfaw](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/G/02/sell/images/Janeva_Morfaw.png)
Janeva Morfaw
Head of Product Sustainable Selection, Amazon
Head of Product Sustainable Selection, Amazon
![Mark Rushmore](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/G/02/sell/images/Mark_Rushmore.jpeg)
Mark Rushmore
Co-Founder, SURI and Amazon Sustainability Accelerator Alumni
Co-Founder, SURI and Amazon Sustainability Accelerator Alumni
![Ben Honan](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/G/02/sell/images/Ben_Honan.png)
Ben Honan
Investment Lead EIT Climate-KIC
Investment Lead EIT Climate-KIC
Frequently asked questions
What is the Amazon Sustainability Accelerator?
The Amazon Sustainability Accelerator is a growth programme for driving sustainable innovation. Each year, we build accelerators around different sustainability verticals, such as circular economy, recycling technology and sustainable consumer products. The product accelerator, is a 10-week programme, that is designed to support entrepreneurs who are in the early stages of building sustainability focused businesses and products. We offer expert-led workshops, mentorship and access to our networks to help navigate the challenges of starting a business within sustainability.
How do I know if the Amazon Sustainability Accelerator is suitable for me?
The Amazon Sustainability Accelerator is looking for bold and ambitious entrepreneurs with bright and effective solutions to today's sustainability challenges. For the consumer products programme, companies in the early stages of operations, either pre-GTM (go-to-market) or <2 years of launching its first product offering are most relevant. It may also be best suited to entrepreneurs who have ambitions to use ecommerce to fuel the growth of their product. The accelerator is open to companies registered in the European Economic Area, the United Kingdom, or Switzerland.
Will Amazon be charging for start-ups to join the programme?
The programme is free and Amazon does not take equity.
Do I need to relocate myself?
Our accelerator programmes operate in a hybrid manner (mixing online and in-person support) allowing you to benefit from face-to-face support when you most need it, while having the flexibility and ease to participate in activities online. However, please note that week’s 1 (16/09/2024 - 20/09/2024), 6 (21/10/2024 - 25/10/2024) and 10(18/11/2024 - 22/11/2024) must be attended in person, in Berlin, Amsterdam and London, respectively.
What benefits are part of the Amazon Sustainability Accelerator?
• Attend a 10 week accelerator programme including exclusive workshops, mentorship and access to Amazon’s network.
• £10,000 Cash grant.
• $10,000 AWS Credits.
• £1,500 travel grant.
• Impact Assessment to help measure and improve your climate impact.
• A Demo Day in London to pitch your business to investors.
• Support launching and succeeding on Amazon.
• £10,000 Cash grant.
• $10,000 AWS Credits.
• £1,500 travel grant.
• Impact Assessment to help measure and improve your climate impact.
• A Demo Day in London to pitch your business to investors.
• Support launching and succeeding on Amazon.
How many businesses will participate in the accelerator?
The consumer accelerator will comprise between 8-10 companies.
We’ve been featured in
![Past features](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/G/02/sell/images/Featured_Logo_set_v2.png)
Hear from Amazon Sustainability Accelerator start-ups
Previous years
Consumer products 2023 cohort
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Recycling tech 2023 cohort
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Consumer products 2022 cohort
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