Start-ups sought for low-carbon concrete challenge

Start-ups invited to tackle concrete’s carbon footprint

The Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA) is calling on start-ups from around the world to apply for its Innovandi Open Challenge 2025, an initiative aimed at developing low-carbon concrete solutions.

Now in its fourth year, the Open Challenge connects innovative start-ups with some of the world’s leading cement and concrete manufacturers. The goal is to accelerate the development of technologies that can help reduce CO2 emissions across the sector.

The 2025 challenge is seeking start-ups working on next-generation materials that contribute to net zero concrete, such as low-carbon admixtures, supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), activators, or binders. A key focus is on reducing clinker, the most carbon-intensive component of cement, while incorporating new materials to lower emissions.

GCCA chief executive Thomas Guillot said: “Advanced production methods to decarbonise our sector are already being used worldwide. Through the Innovandi Open Challenge, start-ups can bring in even newer ideas and further accelerate our industry’s push.

“We’re calling on the best and the brightest from around the world to join us in the urgent fight to limit global warming and help towards delivering net zero concrete.”

Concrete is the second most used substance globally after water, making innovation in its production crucial for achieving sustainability targets. The Open Challenge provides start-ups with a platform to collaborate with leading cement and concrete companies, gaining access to expertise and resources to refine and scale their technologies.

Tim Sperry, CEO of Carbon Limit, a previous participant, highlighted the programme’s benefits: “We saw it as a great opportunity to connect, network, and commercialise our technology with GCCA members globally.”

Applications for the Innovandi Open Challenge 2025 are now open. Further details can be found on the GCCA’s website.

The Global Cement and Concrete Association represents the world’s leading cement and concrete manufacturers. Headquartered in London, it works across international markets to drive sustainability and innovation in the industry, supporting the transition to net zero concrete by 2050.