MaterialDistrict is proud to highlight the Wege Prize 2025, an international competition designed to foster innovation for a sustainable, circular economy. Organized by Kendall College of Art and Design’s Wege Center for Sustainable Design, the Wege Prize challenges teams of university students to rethink our linear economic system and create solutions that eliminate waste, keep products and materials in use, and regenerate natural systems.

The competition is built on three core principles: eliminating waste and pollution, keeping products and materials in use, and regenerating natural ecosystems. Teams are encouraged to propose projects that tackle “wicked problems”—complex, systemic issues that resist straightforward solutions. From tackling climate change to addressing resource scarcity, the prize pushes participants to think holistically and systemically.

Who Can Participate?
Wege Prize is open to transdisciplinary teams of five university students from any discipline and institution around the world. The aim is to develop solutions that can be scaled and implemented globally, with past winning teams having made significant contributions in fields such as renewable energy, food waste management, and sustainable manufacturing.

Why Enter?
Teams compete for a total of $65,000 (USD) in cash prizes, with guidance from expert judges who provide feedback throughout the process. Participants also gain international exposure and the opportunity to collaborate with peers, mentors, and industry professionals. The competition offers multiple phases for feedback and refinement, allowing teams to iterate and strengthen their solutions.

Deadlines and Key Dates
The submission process begins with the first application phase due on 6 October 2024, where teams submit their initial research plan. The competition culminates in a live presentation at the Wege Prize Awards event on 16 May 2025. Here, the finalist teams will present their solutions to a global audience.

A Shared Vision
MaterialDistrict is a proud media partner of Wege Prize 2025. Our collaboration underscores our shared commitment to fostering innovation in sustainability and circularity. We encourage our audience to take part in this exciting initiative or follow the competition to discover the cutting-edge ideas that will shape our future.

For more information and to apply, visit wegeprize.org.

Images: Wege Prize