How can robotics help to make packaging more sustainable? Kuka is looking for creative and innovative ideas in the new round of the Innovation Award. The application period runs until the end of August.
Under the motto „Circular Packaging Challenge“, Kuka is launching the new round of its renowned Innovation Award. The competition is looking for creative concepts and technological solutions on how robotics can make the packaging sector more sustainable, efficient and future-proof. The international competition is aimed at development teams, start-ups and research groups from business and science.
In view of new EU regulations and growing sustainability requirements, the packaging industry is undergoing a transformation that can only succeed with modern concepts and solutions. Kuka is therefore calling for innovative ideas from around the world to actively help shape this change. Wanted are Ideas along the entire life cycle, from the packaging of products in production to the recycling process.
„New technologies around robotics and artificial intelligence are opening up countless opportunities for the packaging industry, whether it's recycling or waste minimisation, or completely redesigning the entire packaging process. We are looking for bright minds and young talents to take a look into the future and present us with their ideas on how robots can be used in the packaging of consumer goods.“
Volker Schmirgel, Head of the Kuka Innovation and Technology Centre
Application deadline is the end of August 2025
Teams from all over the world can apply with their ideas until the end of August. An international jury will select the best concepts. These final teams can present their ideas with a Kuka robot provided free of charge which can be expanded with a Roboception 3D vision system and Kuka software. Kuka experts will also support the finalists in the realisation of the project
Big appearance at the interpack 2026
The applications developed will be presented directly at the Kuka stand in front of an international trade audience at interpack in May 2026. There, the jury will select the winner of the 20,000 euro innovation prize.
With the Innovation Award, Kuka has been promoting the transfer of technology from research to industry for years. The aim is to, Utilising the potential of robotics for real industrial challenges - this year specifically for the transformation of the packaging world.
Source: Kuka
