Forward AM Innovation Award, an international competition to reward innovative startups

BASF 3D Printing Solutions is the subsidiary of German chemist BASF, dedicated to additive manufacturing and especially to the development of advanced materials. It now markets its solutions under the name BASF Forward AM. The company recently announced the launch of the Forward AM Innovation Award, the first ever international competition for young startups using additive manufacturing in product development, whether in the prototyping or final production phase. The competition aims to showcase applications designed using 3D technologies. Startups have until March 28 to apply, and the first 100 eligible startups will receive a Fusion 360 license, valid until June 30, 2021.

The purpose of the awards is to showcase young entrepreneurs who are leveraging 3D printing in an innovative, sustainable and scalable way within their companies. The jury is composed of big names in the additive manufacturing sector: AMPOWER, AMT, Autodesk, HP, Photocentric, Sculpteo, and Ultimaker. Other companies will also be present to provide support and advice, such as AM Ventures, BASF Venture Capital, Deloitte and the Women in 3D Printing community. Everyone will have the opportunity to share their expertise, as well as select nominated companies and lead private coaching sessions. Incredible rewards of up to €185,000 ($224,202) will be at stake, graciously offered by the companies representing the jury.

The Forward AM Innovation Award with its sponsors (photo credits: Forward AM)

Sustainable and responsible additive manufacturing put into the spotlight

This competition aims to reward startups that have developed sustainable applications using 3D printing, either in their development or production process. It will also allow the winner to assert their initiative and thus implement their solution over the long term. Nevertheless, even companies that don’t win the competition can expect a prize. In fact, the four finalists can expect to receive €20,000 ($24,528.94) in goods and services, and benefit from a networking base, coaching and a pronounced marketing exposure for two months.