The World Economic Forum’s early-stage innovation engine
This challenge calls for early-stage ventures using AI to transform the plastics value chain. Winners will connect with the World Economic Forum's Plastics Technology and Innovation workstream and its multistakeholder community, contributing to a shared evidence base and gaining visibility to support deployment and scale. Submissions close on 2 December 2026.
UpLink is the World Economic Forum’s early-stage innovation engine. Powered by cutting-edge technology and the Forum’s global networks, UpLink co-creates ecosystems that connect purpose-driven innovators with the partnerships, resources and capital they need to scale solutions for the markets and economies critical to a resilient, sustainable and prosperous world.
UpLink envisions a future where profit and purpose go hand in hand — where innovation drives competitiveness, inclusion and long-term value, where economic growth uplifts people while restoring the planet, and where resilience is the foundation of thriving, future-proof economies.
Global systems including energy, food, water, cities and infrastructure are under increasing strain. Although many technologies needed for a net-zero future already exist, few reach commercial scale.
Early-stage innovation can be a powerful driver of economic growth, job creation and resilience. When supported by strong ecosystems, these solutions unlock new markets, strengthen competitiveness and accelerate the transition to a sustainable and prosperous global economy.

We build innovation ecosystems that connect early-stage entrepreneurs, investors and industry leaders to accelerate real-world impact.

We help early-stage solutions move from pilot to market by connecting entrepreneurs with pathways for commercial deployment and scale.

We amplify evidence-based insights and real-world examples that clarify where innovation matters most, building confidence in early-stage solutions that reshape systems and drive resilient economic growth.