The City of Austin has announced the winner of the 2024 Circular Austin Showcase, a pitch competition aimed at promoting local circular businesses focused on reuse and zero waste. Circular business models aim to minimize the extraction of new resources by keeping materials and products in use for as long as possible.
The event took place on August 29, in collaboration between Austin Resource Recovery and the Economic Development Department.
A judging panel selected Mosaic Workshop as this year’s winner after evaluating pitches from five finalists. Additionally, three participants from the Circular Austin Accelerator program presented their business ideas during the competition. Material Union received a $2,000 prize. Scoring criteria included business viability, fundability, impact on the circular economy/zero waste initiatives, economic impact, local job creation, and effectiveness of pitch delivery. All competitors received feedback from the judges.
Richard McHale, Director for Austin Resource Recovery, stated: "Austin Resource Recovery is proud to host the fourth annual Circular Austin Showcase alongside the Economic Development Department. This event is a great way to give local businesses a platform to showcase their circular business ideas. We congratulate all the finalists. These organizations are dedicated to reusing materials and reducing waste to help Austin toward a zero waste future."
Sylnovia Holt-Rabb, Director of the Economic Development Department, added: "The Circular Austin Showcase highlights innovative businesses that are driving sustainability and economic growth in our community. We applaud the finalists for their commitment to reducing waste and inspiring a circular economy in Austin."
The Circular Austin Showcase is part of the City of Austin’s Circular Economy Program and aims to connect local investors with circular economy entrepreneurs and business owners. The event supports efforts to reduce waste and grow the local circular economy.
The Circular Austin Accelerator program assists entrepreneurs in refining their circular business ideas through a 12-week program that includes business training and coaching.
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About Austin Resource Recovery
Austin Resource Recovery (ARR) is a department of the City of Austin providing services such as recycling collection, composting, trash disposal, large brush collection, bulk item removal, street sweeping, hazardous waste recycling and disposal, along with community outreach and education.
About the City of Austin Economic Development Department
The City of Austin Economic Development Department supports business growth, creative industries, and local communities through various programs aimed at building an equitable and sustainable economy for all residents.