Group of Person Walking in Mountain

Opportunity: Glass Innovation

New materials and innovation in glass, ceramic, alloys, modifications, treatments, processes, etc.

About the Opportunity

Our partner is seeking innovation in glass, ceramics, or glass-ceramic alloys with applications for food and beverage-related consumer products primarily used in outdoor environments. Interesting partners will be developing coatings, treatments, or manufacturing processes that enhance the durability of glass, maintain transparency of the product, and can be scaled for mass production.

They are eager to work with startups as suppliers, licensees, or in other suitable arrangements. They prefer products that are already commercially available and want to work with startups that are already established or scaling. Potential partners have the opportunity to connect themselves with a multi-billion dollar prestige brand known for durable, quality products.


Technical Specifications

Glass and (or) ceramic innovations including products, processes, or treatments that specifically address or enhance:

  • Durability
  • Improved impact resistance and strength
  • Thermal shock resistance
  • Scratch resistance


Examples include (but aren’t limited to):

  • Ion-exchange durability treatments
  • Chemical strengthening
  • Surface treatments
  • Coatings, alloys, etc.


Preferred solutions would ideally maintain glass transparency and must be adaptable to mass manufacturing processes.


Areas of Interest

Sector & Industries

Materials & Manufacturing (chemicals, hardware, production processes)

Retail & E-Commerce (Consumer Products, Food & Beverages)

Technologies

New materials

Development Stage

Scaling

Becoming Established

Geographic Reach

Worldwide

China is highly desirable for supply chain proximity


About the Organization

North America-based with international sales of over $1 bn, this prestige consumer brand offers a range of high-quality beverage coolers, tumblers, and mugs designed for use in the great outdoors. The company's focus on drinkware and food storage contributes to its worldwide reputation for high performance and quality. The company has experience working with startups developing glass coatings and is eager to find more innovation in glass, ceramic, and glass-ceramic alloy products, processes, and technologies.


Timeline

2024 - Identify partner and make POC

2025 - Supply chain setup, manufacturing, inventory building

2026 (early) - Launch

Milestones

  1. Mutual NDAs
  2. Joint Development Agreement
  3. Co-develop proof of concept
  4. Confirm technical and financial feasibility
  5. Make and execute a go-to-market plan

How to Nominate

If you believe you have the right candidate for this opportunity, please complete the nomination form where you are able to share up to three startups.

If you have more than three candidates, please contact us directly at:

communications@ubi-global.com

Deadline: 20 August 2024​