1 The EIC Accelerator Project

Overview of the EIC Accelerator Program

The EIC Accelerator program is a key initiative under the European Innovation Council (EIC) designed to support innovative startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Europe. Focused primarily on high-risk, high-potential innovations, the program aims to facilitate the transition of ideas into market-ready products and services. The EIC Accelerator provides both grant funding and equity investment, enabling startups to secure the necessary financial backing to scale their operations effectively.

Funding Structure

The EIC Accelerator offers a combination of grant and equity funding:

Purpose and Impact

The EIC Accelerator is instrumental in the European DeepTech and startup ecosystem by addressing critical funding gaps that often hinder the growth of innovative companies. By providing substantial financial resources, the program enables startups to scale their operations, attract private investment, and ultimately compete on a global stage. The EIC Accelerator plays a crucial role in fostering innovation, job creation, and economic growth within the EU.

Role in Scaling Companies

The EIC Accelerator not only offers financial support but also provides strategic guidance, networking opportunities, and access to a community of like-minded innovators. This holistic approach helps companies refine their business models, enhance their market strategies, and improve their chances of securing further funding from private investors. The EIC Accelerator serves as a bridge between public funding and private investment, fostering a dynamic ecosystem that supports sustainable innovation.

Case Study: Ecopolplast spolka z o.o. and the Ecoplastomer Project

Ecopolplast spolka z o.o., a Polish company, emerged as a winner of the EIC Accelerator with their project, Ecoplastomer. The project focuses on developing a breakthrough technology for addressing plastic and rubber waste through a circular thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) solution.

Project Description: Ecoplastomer

The Ecoplastomer project aims to innovate the recycling process of plastic and rubber waste by introducing a new generation of thermoplastic elastomers. This technology seeks to create a sustainable alternative to conventional materials, contributing to a circular economy. The project addresses pressing environmental challenges associated with plastic waste, which has become a significant global concern.

Technology Background

Ecoplastomer's technology revolves around the design and development of a circular TPE that can be produced from recycled materials. This involves:

• Material Sourcing: Utilizing post-consumer and post-industrial waste streams as raw materials for TPE production, reducing the reliance on virgin resources and minimizing environmental impact.
• Processing Technique: The innovative processing methods developed by Ecopolplast focus on maintaining the quality and performance characteristics of the TPE while utilizing recycled inputs. This includes advanced polymerization techniques that enhance the material's durability and elasticity.
• Circular Economy Integration: The project embodies the principles of circular economy by enabling the recycling of TPE at the end of its lifecycle, ensuring that materials remain in the economy rather than being disposed of in landfills.
• Environmental Impact: By converting waste into valuable materials, the Ecoplastomer project aims to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable manufacturing practices.

The Ecoplastomer project received grant funding under the EIC Accelerator program on March 23, 2022, during the Step 2 proposal phase. This funding is expected to catalyze the development of the technology and facilitate its entry into the market.

Conclusion

The EIC Accelerator program exemplifies Europe's commitment to fostering innovation and supporting the growth of high-potential startups. The case of Ecopolplast spolka z o.o. and their Ecoplastomer project highlights the potential of innovative solutions to address critical environmental challenges. By providing essential funding and resources, the EIC Accelerator plays a vital role in shaping the future of the European startup ecosystem, driving sustainable development and economic growth.

2 The Funding Rounds

Ecopolplast spółka z o.o. — Funding and Investment Overview Since EIC Accelerator Award

Financing Raised

Ecopolplast, a Polish clean technology startup specializing in fully circular thermoplastic materials from recycled plastics and rubber, was awarded significant financing through the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program. In March 2022, the company secured a €2.5 million grant to scale its innovative recycling technology.

Funding Rounds

• Only one major public funding round is reported for Ecopolplast since its founding:
• March 2022: EIC Accelerator grant of €2.5 million.

There are no additional disclosed private equity rounds or venture capital investments following this grant as of April 2025.

Timing and Amount of Funding Rounds

• Date: March 2022
• Amount: €2.5 million
• Type: Non-dilutive grant funding from the European Innovation Council Accelerator.
• There is no public information on subsequent or prior rounds involving other investors or different funding amounts.

Investor Information

The sole listed investor for this period is the European Innovation Council (EIC), which provided non-dilutive support via its flagship accelerator program designed to help high-potential startups expand breakthrough technologies. No co-investors or follow-on investors are mentioned in available records.

Other Information Related to Funding Rounds

The EIC funding enabled Ecopolplast to: - Open an innovative pilot production line in Gdynia dedicated to manufacturing thermoplastic elastomers made entirely from recycled materials, achieving full independence from virgin raw materials.

Accelerate scaling efforts and further commercialize their proprietary "Ecoplastomer®" material technology.

This support also led to increased media attention, multiple awards within sustainability circles, and recognition as a leading cleantech startup operating at the intersection of circular economy principles and advanced polymer science.

Company Valuations

No valuation figures have been publicly disclosed for Ecopolplast following their EIC funding round. As this was a non-dilutive (grant-based) award rather than an equity investment round, there are no market-driven valuation events associated with it.

Exit Events: IPOs, Buyouts, Acquisitions

As of April 30th, 2025:

• There have been no exit events such as an IPO (Initial Public Offering), acquisition by another company, or management buyout involving Ecopolplast.
• The company continues operating independently under founder Katarzyna Pokwicka-Croucher's leadership with ongoing recognition for innovation in sustainable materials but without any reported change-of-control transactions since receiving its major EIC grant.

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Sources

• Ecopolplast company information — Dealroom
• Ecopolplast company profile — Poland Dealroom
• 100% recycled circular TPE – Company website
• Odense Seed & Venture - Company profile
• Press & Awards — ecoplastomer.eu
• EIC Accelerator awards announcement – ecoplastomer.eu

3 The Press Releases

Ecopolplast Sp. z o.o.

Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding in March 2022, Ecopolplast Sp. z o.o., a Polish company, has made significant strides in the development and production of innovative, eco-friendly materials. Here are the key updates and developments:

Innovative Products and Technology

• Ecoplastomer: Ecopolplast has pioneered the production of Ecoplastomer, a brand-new, 100% recycled thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) made from recyclates of post-consumer polyolefin products and rubber crumbs from recycled tires. This breakthrough technology ensures complete independence from virgin raw materials and reduces CO2 emissions.
• Circular Production Line: In November 2023, the company launched the world's first circular thermoplastics pilot production line in Gdynia, marking a milestone in sustainable manufacturing.

Awards and Recognition

• Innovation Radar Prize: Ecopolplast was nominated for the Innovation Radar Prize 2023 in the category of Female-Led Innovations, acknowledging its innovative approach and leadership.
• Green Alley Award: In 2024, Ecopolplast became a finalist for the Green Alley Award, which boosted its visibility in the EU and German markets, particularly among TPE dealers and manufacturers seeking sustainable solutions.
• Visionary of Polish Economy Award: Ecopolplast received the Visionary of Polish Economy award from the Business Centre Club, recognizing its innovative start-up status.

Partnerships and Growth Strategies

• Collaborations and Partnerships: Ecopolplast’s growth strategy focuses on collaborations and partnerships to enhance technological capabilities and expand market reach. These alliances are crucial for accelerating product development and offering comprehensive solutions to environmentally conscious industries.
• Market Expansion: The company aims to scale production of Ecoplastomer and enter key sectors such as automotive and consumer goods, setting new benchmarks in sustainability.

Team and Leadership

Katarzyna Pokwicka-Croucher: As the Founder and CEO of Ecopolplast, Katarzyna Pokwicka-Croucher has been instrumental in driving the company's mission to innovate polymers and reduce waste. Her leadership has emphasized the impact of women in business and technology.

Press Releases and Updates

The company's website and press releases highlight its commitment to sustainable manufacturing and reducing plastic waste. Ecopolplast regularly publishes updates on its innovations, awards, and partnerships, showcasing its role in promoting a circular economy.

Sources:

• Press and awards
• Ecopolplast launched the first circular thermoplastics pilot
• Innovating polymers: 100% recycled ECOPLASTOMER
• Ecopolplast sp. z o.o.
• Grand opening of the Ecopolplast factory
• Startup Update - Ecopolplast
• SH – Ecopolplast sp. z o.o

4 The Technology Advancements

Ecopolplast’s Post-EIC Accelerator Advancements and Market Position

Since securing EIC Accelerator funding in March 2022, Ecopolplast Sp. z o.o. has accelerated its production capabilities and market presence through several key milestones:

Technological and Operational Developments

• Pilot Production Line Launch: In November 2023, the company inaugurated its first circular thermoplastics pilot production line in Gdynia, Poland, marking a critical step toward scaling its proprietary Ecoplastomer® technology.
• Material Innovation: Ecoplastomer® granules are now confirmed to retain optimal rheological properties after multiple reprocessing cycles (at least five), with a modulus of elasticity approximately double that of unfilled recycled polyolefins. The material requires no coupling agents or modifiers while maintaining full circularity.
• Process Efficiency: Recent advancements include slashing injection molding cycle times for products using 100% recycled content, as reported by Sustainable Plastics in June 2024.

Market Demonstration and Partnerships

• Commercial Applications: Ecoplastomer® is actively marketed for automotive components, construction materials, consumer goods (e.g., office furniture), and industrial uses like storage containers. Mitsui & Co. promotes the material globally through its distribution channels.
• Industry Recognition: The company was named a 2024 Green Alley Award finalist and listed among Sifted’s “88 Early-stage Circular Economy Startups to Watch” for its closed-loop TPE solutions.

Intellectual Property and Research Outputs

While no new patents are explicitly cited post-EIC funding, the company emphasizes trade secrets around substrate formulation (recycled polyolefins + tire rubber crumb) rather than novel patent filings. Published research highlights include:

• Validation of mechanical properties after repeated recycling cycles without degradation
• Compatibility with standard polymer processing methods like extrusion, injection molding, and 3D printing

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Sources

• Innovating polymers: 100% recycled ECOPLASTOMER®
• EIC Accelerator awards Ecopolplast
• Ecopolplast - Green Alley Award

-Ecopolymer website updates -Mitsui partnership details

5 The Partnerships and Customers

Ecopolplast Spółka z o.o.

Ecopolplast Spółka z o.o., a Polish startup, has been making significant strides in the circular economy since receiving funding. Here are key details about their partnerships, customers, and how these relationships are positioning them in the market:

Partnerships and Customers

PulpaTronics: Ecopolplast has initiated discussions with PulpaTronics (UK), a company known for its sustainable RFID tags. This collaboration aims to enhance material traceability and reduce manufacturing emissions, aligning with Ecopolplast's mission to improve sustainability across industries.

New Partnerships

Ecopolplast is actively seeking market entries and partnerships to expand its reach across sectors like automotive and consumer goods. However, specific new partnerships beyond PulpaTronics have not been detailed in the available information.

Nature and Purpose of Relationships

The partnerships are focused on leveraging innovative technologies to advance sustainability. For instance, the collaboration with PulpaTronics will help Ecopolplast comply with upcoming digital product passport regulations in the EU, enhancing its position as a leader in sustainable TPE solutions.

Market Positioning

These relationships will further establish Ecopolplast as a pioneer in circular economy practices, particularly in the production of thermoplastic elastomers. By expanding into key sectors, Ecopolplast aims to set new benchmarks in sustainability while reducing reliance on virgin resources.

Technology Advancements and Scaling

Collaborations like the one with PulpaTronics will enhance Ecopolplast's technological capabilities, particularly in areas such as material traceability. Additionally, these partnerships will accelerate product development and enable Ecopolplast to offer comprehensive solutions that meet the evolving needs of environmentally conscious industries.

Future Outlook

Ecopolplast is focused on scaling production of its Ecoplastomer®, a 100% recycled content thermoplastic material. This will involve strategic growth initiatives and ongoing innovation to solidify its position in sustainable TPE solutions.

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Sources: - Ecopolplast Offers Compounding Polymer Materials Services

• Startup Update - Ecopolplast
• Innovating Polymers: 100% Recycled Ecoplastomer
• Ecoplastomer

6 The Hiring and Company Growth

Ecopolplast's Team Growth and Scaling Post-EIC Accelerator Funding Since securing EIC Accelerator support in March 2022, Ecopolplast has accelerated its position as a circular economy innovator, though specific hiring metrics or headcount figures remain undisclosed in available sources. The company’s growth trajectory focuses on scaling production and expanding its technological footprint:

• Strategic Expansion: The 2024 launch of the world’s first pilot line for 100% recycled thermoplastics in Gdynia signals operational scaling, necessitating technical and manufacturing roles. However, exact team size or hiring volumes are not publicly reported.
• Leadership Continuity: Founder Katarzyna Pokwicka-Croucher remains CEO, with no major management changes noted post-funding. Her leadership has driven EU grant acquisition and technology commercialization.
• Talent Implications: While key hires are unspecified, Ecopolplast’s inclusion in rankings like Sifted’s “Circular Economy Startups to Watch” (2024) suggests recruitment aligned with R&D and industrial partnerships to meet demand for circular materials.
• Scaling Impact: New team members likely support the pilot line’s output goals, certification processes (e.g., Green Alley Award finalist status), and global market penetration efforts cited in sustainability awards.

Despite limited granular data on workforce size or recent hires, Ecopolplast’s project milestones indicate strategic team growth to advance material innovation and waste-reduction targets.

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Sources

• Ecoplastomer.eu
• Ecopolplast Creator Page
• PLASTPOL Exhibitor Profile

7 The Media Features and Publications

Overview of Ecopolplast Sp. z o.o.

Company Background

Ecopolplast Sp. z o.o., based in Poland, is a pioneering company in the development and production of innovative circular thermoplastic elastomers, known as Ecoplastomers. These materials are made entirely from post-consumer recycled plastic and recycled tire rubber crumb, eliminating the need for virgin raw materials and significantly reducing environmental impact.

Media Features and Publications

Ecopolplast has gained significant media attention for its groundbreaking technology. The company was featured in various publications, including the European Rubber Journal, Rubber World, and Sustainable Plastics, highlighting its contributions to sustainable manufacturing and circular economy practices. Additionally, Ecopolplast was recognized as one of the top startups in numerous rankings for its innovative approach to materials science and environmental sustainability.

Interviews and Podcasts

While specific details about podcasts are not available, Katarzyna Pokwicka, the CEO of Ecopolplast, has been involved in interviews discussing the company's mission and technological advancements. These conversations focus on the company's commitment to sustainability and its achievements in circular economy solutions.

Conference and Fair Participations

Ecopolplast has participated in significant industry events, including the PLASTPOL 2024 fair in Kielce, Poland, where it showcased its innovative Ecoplastomer products. The company's involvement in such events underscores its commitment to promoting sustainable materials and technologies within the plastics industry.

Event Involvement

Ecopolplast's participation in various conferences and fairs demonstrates its active role in the circular economy and sustainable materials sectors. The company's presence at these events helps to foster partnerships and collaborations that support its growth strategy.

Recent Developments and Future Plans

Following the EIC Accelerator funding received in March 2022, Ecopolplast has continued to focus on scaling its production of 100% recycled content thermoplastic elastomers. The company aims to expand its market reach across sectors like automotive and consumer goods, emphasizing sustainability and circular economy principles.

Awards and Recognition

Ecopolplast has been recognized as a finalist for the Green Alley Award 2024, reflecting its impact in promoting EU recycled content regulations and reducing carbon footprints. It has also been included in notable lists such as the Startup Pozytywnego Wpływu 2024 and the Stena Circular Economy Award for its contributions to circular economy practices.

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Sources:

• Startup Update - Ecopolplast - Green Alley Award
• O nas — Cyrkularny TPE w 100% z recyklatów
• Cyrkularny TPE w 100% z recyklatów
• 100 Top Green Technology Companies
• Innovating polymers: 100% recycled ECOPLASTOMER®
• International Conference of the Plastics Industry - Warsaw Plast Expo
• D2.1.1 – Open Innovation Maps
• Ecopolplast sp. z o.o. ‹ PLASTPOL ‹ List of exhibitors
• Ecopolplast sp. z o.o. - Targi Kielce