Inviting scalable solutions, inspired by nature, that enable California’s plastic transition.
The global plastics crisis is at a breaking point.
California’s SB 54 has created a deadline for action in the 4th largest economy in the world.
The hard truth: too much of what we make, use, and discard ends up where it doesn’t belong, and never truly goes away.
But biology offers a different ending to that story.
Introducing the inaugural CBIO Collaborative Design Challenge.
Reimagining Packaging for California’s Plastic Transition
Return to Earth
June - September 2026
Discovery Sessions & Teaming Opportunities
August 24, 2026
Notice of Intent due
September 25, 2026
Full proposals due
October 2026
Finalists invited to pitch session
November 10, 2026
Pitch Competition at BioCirCA
Ways to Participate
Become a Challenge Sponsor
Help to shape this pilot project.
Host a Student Challenge
Open to educational partners.
Serve as a Mentor or Pitch Judge
Lend expertise to challenge participants.
Discovery Sessions
Dive into California’s SB 54 and what it means for the bioeconomy.