1. What is NextLap?

NextLap is an open innovation program.

This means that, through it, innovators and startups can grow and do business with big players, and companies can innovate themselves the startup way.

NextLap is a program on Circular Economy, looking for companies that want to create, develop or test new and existing solutions using the recycled tyre derived materials such as Rubber, Textile, and Steel. The ultimate purpose is to give a new life to tyres in their end of life cycle.

2. Who can Apply and How?

• Innovators and Startups: these are the program participants, who will be bringing innovative solutions to the industry;
  You can apply by filling the application form right here.
• Pilot Partners: these are the industry players that will be applying to team up with the selected solutions.
  You can apply by writing in the NextLap’s contact page and the team will set up a meeting.

3. What are the eligible solutions to apply, for innovators?

• All solutions that find new ways of refurbishing or reusing the tyre: whole, shredded or components are eligible.
• Also, solutions that improve the existing processes using end of life tyre components:
  • Rubber Granulate and Powder Solutions from any industry that bring innovative ways of treating, reusing or refurbishing rubber granulate and powder. Examples: Concrete, Construction, Insulation, Painting, Rubber goods, Sealers. 
  • Textile Solutions that bring innovative applications for textile. Focus on specific applications for textile fibres such as:
    • 3D printing / spray concrete
    • Self-standing acoustic (insulation and absorption) walls
    • Carpet backing and moulded carpet for all use
    • Blends with other fibres for anti-acoustic / vibration purpose for all use
    • Green roofs / Growing beds
  • Steel Solutions to be adapted and applied to the steel used in the automotive industry.

4. If my startup or project is selected, what are the next steps?

You’ll be meeting the program partners and pilot partners on December 15, for the innovation day. This is a great opportunity to start thinking about who you would like to work with.

In February you’ll have the opportunity to meet directly with the partners and fine tune for pilots, together.

5. I’m an innovator/startup. Will I be receiving investment? What’s in it for me?

The main objective of the program is not investment, at least not directly. The industry partners will be helping your projects to be developed, financially or not. The purpose is that you work together with the industry partners and you can develop pilot projects with each other. What comes after will depend on your work together.

By participating, you’ll have the opportunity to:

• Go Global: enhance network and get visibility from several industries;
• Connect directly with the Program’s partners: work collaboratively with Pilot/Industry Partners while developing pilot projects, commercially deploy products and facilitate investment opportunities;
• Have access to resources (e.g. materials provided by Genan) 
• Network with key people from the industry. 
• Receive input, feedback and insights from key stakeholders from different industries;
• Acquire technical advice and knowledge regarding the ELT industry and process;
• Be part of new solutions for a full circular process with global impact.

6. In what language will the program be conducted?

Since NextLap is aiming for worldwide applications, the program will be conducted in english. 

7. What is the cost of participating?

Participating in NextLap is free of charge. We are proud to carefully select our participants, focusing on their innovative solutions and solid teams.

8. Does the program take equity?

NextLap does not take equity either.

9. Will we be meeting face to face throughout the program?

Due to the worldwide pandemic caused by Covid-19, it is still not possible to conduct the program face to face. NextLap has adapted to a digital format, allowing innovation to continue while guaranteeing the safety of all participants.