In conjunction with Plug and Play, the Colgate-Palmolive Company is hosting a startup challenge with a live pitch event during CES 2022.

Colgate is a caring, innovative growth company reimagining a healthier future for all—through advanced technologies, including connected devices, that empower people to monitor and improve their oral health, personal hygiene, and overall health and well-being.

Through the Colgate Connect Challenge, Colgate seeks to connect with external startup partners to develop new  innovative solutions and world-changing products that will promote healthy futures.

Technology Focus Areas

Quantified Health and Analytics

• Self-Care and Assessment
  - Devices, sensors, testing, and platforms for monitoring and assessment of Oral
  and Skin Health. Linkages to product recommendation, performance
  assessment, telehealth.
• Product Personalization
  - Both DIY (at home hardware) and/or commercial manufacturing of personalized
  products with emphasis on oral care and skin care. May also include devices, bio
  sampling, platforms, and other techniques for product recommendation and
  personalization. Micro production manufacturing techniques.
• eHealth / Telehealth
  - Linkage of assessment tools with the profession: Dentist and Dermatologist.

Smart and Connected Packaging & Digital Consumer engagement

• Novel ways to engage and interact with consumers. May be for product information, re-
  purchase, or other experiences. Digital experiences would include AR or other virtual
  engagement at home or in-store.

Products and platforms for the underserved population

• Products, services or platforms focused on the aging population, the disabled, special needs individuals, and low-income consumers for one of Colgate’s product categories: Oral Care, Personal Care, Home Care or Pet Care.

Why should you apply

• Cash awards: $20,000 USD for the final winner
• Corporate network: All finalist will be able to directly connect (access to) with top Colgate-Palmolive R&D leaders and Plug and Play senior executives
• Funding opportunities: Potential investment from Plug and Play and potential opportunity to enter a joint project with Colgate-Palmolive
• Accelerator program access: Guaranteed access to Plug and Play Brand&Retail accelerator program for the final winner
• Brand amplification: Co-marketing on Colgate-Palmolive and Plug and Play’s social media channels and website

Who can apply

• All early stage innovators can apply
• Preference for physical presence at CES for the pitch event
• A team with entrepreneurial spirit and at least 3 people
• Open to any global companies, but the company materials and pitch should be in English
• Demonstrated prototype and/or business model
• Applications must address one of the challenges