About AD Stretch
How many challenges have been issued?
We have three main challenge themes and six problem statements we’re looking to address. Learn more here.
Why is Avery Dennison running the AD Stretch Program?
We are looking to pair with early stage startups (pre-seed to series C) that can answer clear business problems and fit our strategic profile, expand our innovation network, and generally just do amazing, groundbreaking things together in the packaging space.
Will all of the challenges be open to everyone? Or are they specific to regions?
All challenge areas are open to all regions, but some problem statements we’ll develop within the challenges will be region-specific.
Applications
Who should apply? Are there restrictions on the type or size of company that can apply?
We are looking to work with startups (pre-seed to series C), that are already in market or have sales traction in market. Earlier stage companies may apply but will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
How are startups selected for the AD Stretch Program?
Approximately 30 companies will be selected, and will be brought down to a final shortlist of six to 10 selected startups via three selection phases. There will be a maximum of two rounds of interviews per startup. The timeline for the process is here.
When will I know if I have been successful?
Final decisions will be made and communicated by the end of April 2022. Due to the volume of applications, we are only able to directly contact the applicants that successfully enter into the first round of selections.
What will startups need to submit to be considered/accepted?
The complete application form including requirements is here.
My startup does not fit the challenge areas, but I am working on something I think Avery Dennison would be interested in, can I still apply?
Please contact Upma Arora, Global Innovation Program Lead at ADStretch@averydennison.com and we will consider these inquiries on a case-by-case basis.
Format
What is the time commitment?
The program is designed with founders in mind. Our cohorts are designed to be a virtual program and the time commitment would require a minimum of 2-3 hours per week, requiring regular meetings with your pilot team lead and mentors. Accepted companies will be required to outline their commitment to the pilot during the initial stage of the program.
How will the cohort be organized?
The program is designed in two phases. In the first phase the accepted companies will work on pilot design and development with the Avery Dennison program team and your team leads. The second phase will involve the execution of the pilot. Additional programming such as webinars, office hours and programming will be provided to support the companies with their growth and scaling goals.
Where will the pilots take place?
The pilots will take place in different regions based on cohorts. Cohort 1 covered the APAC and LATAM regions, while Cohort 2 will encompass the EMENA and NA regions.
Why should I work with you?
We’re an 88-year-old startup!
Ray Stanton (“Stan”) Avery invented the world’s first self-adhesive label as a way to merchandise objects. In 1935, he founded Avery Adhesives in downtown Los Angeles and, in 1990, the company merged with Dennison Manufacturing to form Avery Dennison. Over the past 80+ years, we have grown from one bright idea into a global Fortune 500® corporation that continues to advance quality and innovation in materials science.
Today our products are used in nearly every major industry. Our global scale—operating in over 180 locations—and extensive expertise in our core businesses allows us to be recognized as an industry leader.
Does this program take equity? What are the financial and investment incentives we should consider before applying to this program?
The AD Stretch program does not take equity. The pilots will be funded as per agreement between you and your program lead. The program will provide you with a network, support and guidance, and we will make introductions to help with your funding and scaling goals.
Although we have no specific investment requirements with this program, post-program we are open to potential discussions around transitioning successful startups to full-fledged commercial partnerships and into our venture portfolio.
General
I am a startup already working with Avery Dennison, should I apply?
Please get in touch with Upma Arora (upma.arora@ap.averydennison.com) to discuss the nature of the engagement and further advice.
Do applicants relinquish IP when they submit to the challenges?
No. If there is joint IP developed during the pilot process, we will have tailored agreements to protect both parties’ best interests.
Will AD Stretch contribute to Avery Dennison’s business growth?
Innovation is at the heart of what Avery Dennison does. We look to you to help solve tomorrow’s problems today, thereby absolutely contributing to our business growth.
What will startups need to submit to be considered/accepted?
Please contact the Global Innovation Program Lead, Upma Arora (ADStretch@averydennison.com)
