The Alliance for the Future of Tires (AZuR) has launched LOOP THE TYRE 2026, a Europe-wide competition focused on rethinking tyres as part of a sustainable circular economy
LOOP THE TYRE 2026
The initiative invites innovators to develop solutions that aim to extend tyre life, reduce emissions and keep materials in use that would otherwise become waste, with applications closing on 15 May 2026.
According to AZuR, LOOP THE TYRE 2026 competition is open to start-ups (up to two years old or in formation), researchers, university teams, students, practitioners, and creative professionals from Europe. Submissions may range from new materials and recycling technologies to digital tools and circular business models that improve the tyres’ environmental performance throughout their life cycle.
Key focus areas include retreading and repair, sustainable alternative materials, innovative recycling processes (mechanical, chemical, or digital), sorting and separation technologies, fleet and tyre management systems, and new circular economy business models for the tyre industry.
The top three projects will each receive prize money totalling €6,000, along with significant non-financial benefits, including two years of free AZuR partnership, a chance to present at THE TIRE COLOGNE 2026, access to a network of over 80 industry and research partners, media presence and participation in AZuR scientific events.
Application Process
Applicants must submit a project description (up to five pages) or a pitch deck (up to 15 slides), with the option to include a short explanatory video. Winners will be selected by a jury of experts from academia and industry.
AZuR has highlighted BEAR Machines as a successful example of what is possible through the network: the start-up developed a semi-automatic tyre regrooving machine that significantly extends tyre life, reduces resource consumption and lowers CO2 emissions.
