The transition of the chemical industry towards defossilisation and sustainability will take a broad variety of new processes and products. But having new ideas and technologies will not be enough. Scaling innovations needs motivated people, a strong network of experts working together, and investors to provide the necessary capital. Thus, CLIB will again bring together innovators, experts, and investors for our fourth annual “SME & Start-up Pitch Event @ CLIB” on 03 September 2025 in Düsseldorf to exchange ideas, build connections, and advance technologies capable of making a difference.

We are adding to the programme this year with an exclusive “boost your network satellite event” on 25 August 2025, 13.00-16.00 h, online. If you are an SME, you can join the online satellite event to reflect on which questions around your technology still need to be answered and let the CLIB managers connect you to relevant partners.

Scope

We are going to look at innovations using biomass as a feedstock or biotechnology as part of their process to produce industrially relevant products. The processes can range from purely biotech to combinations of chemical and biotechnological steps. We are looking for innovations ranging from bulk chemicals, such as polymers or platform chemicals, to fine chemicals such as flavours, food additives, or adhesives. Contributions to alternative proteins, textiles and fibres, as well as solutions for the building or logistics sector are welcome to participate as well.

Who is this event for?

As start-up or SME: Pitch your idea to relevant stakeholders to receive insights into an investor’s perspective and to network with fellow entrepreneurs and potential partners or mentors. Join the satellite event to benefit from individual networking by the CLIB managers.

As investor, industry expert, or consultant: Join to learn about new innovations and get to know the people behind these ideas.

How to participate

You can apply to be part of this event by filling out the form below. The CLIB team will check your application and send you a confirmation as soon as possible. Please note that the number of participants is limited for both categories (investor/industry/expert and SME/start-up) and categories, and all applications in scope will be confirmed on a first-come-first-served basis.

Agenda: