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NextGen Demo seeks circular pioneers

Port of Antwerp-Bruges is launching a second consultation procedure for the plots available within NextGen Demo. This innovation hub is aimed at circular pioneers looking for space and support to test projects before scaling them up to the commercial level.

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Innovation hub NextGen Demo seeks circular pioneers

Port of Antwerp-Bruges is launching a second consultation procedure for the plots available within NextGen Demo. This innovation hub is part of NextGen District and is aimed at circular pioneers looking for space and support to test projects before scaling them up to the commercial level. The first consultation process, in late 2021, generated many responses. Based on that input, the offering has now been further refined and tailored to the specific needs of demonstrators.

Who are we looking for?

Port of Antwerp-Bruges is looking for start-ups, scale-ups, spin-off companies or pilot projects that are active in sustainable and innovative chemical and energy technology. There is a focus on technologies within four areas: Waste-to-X (chemicals/fuels), CCU (Carbon Capture & Utilisation), bio-based technologies and storage of renewable energy and hydrogen technologies.

NextGen Demo is investing sustainably in the port of Antwerp. How do you make alternative resources for circular industry out of CO2, plastic waste and bio mass.

Award procedure

 

Therefore, on 23 January, we launched a call for circular pioneers to submit their project proposals. There is an opportunity to submit written questions to Port of Antwerp-Bruges until 28 February. You will get the responses no later than 10 March. The deadline for submitting the project proposal is 31 March 2023. This applies to candidates who can start a demonstration immediately, or to candidates who still need limited preparation.

 

After evaluation of the written project proposals and an oral explanation by the candidates, negotiations and decision to award a concession or preparation process will follow, after which the concession agreement or Letter of Intent will be signed.

More info about the award procedure

NextGen District continues to take shape with PureCycle

NextGen Demo is part of the NextGen District. An 88-hectare site in the heart of the Antwerp port area. The first part of this circular economy hotspot was completed with the announcement of the PureCycle plastic recycling plant.

 

With the large-scale investment, PureCycle is building a plant that will recycle polypropylene (PP). It will have an annual capacity of 59,000 tons (130 million pounds). Moreover, the plot offers enough space to expand in the future to a total capacity of about 240,000 tons (about 500 million pounds) per year. Active negotiations are ongoing with potential partners to supply raw materials and purchase recycling products, such as UPR resin for the European market.

 

The project is one of the largest investments in NextGen District and will create about 65 to 70 new jobs. Construction of the plant is anticipated to begin in 2024.

Preparatory works in NextGen District, where PureCycle with its plastic recycling plant will become one of the largest investments.

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