EIT Climate-KIC, a European climate change initiative aimed at creating a zero-carbon economy through innovation, and Amazonjoin the first ever cohort of the Amazon Launchpad Sustainability Accelerator. Around 12,000 applications were submitted for this three-month program aimed at developing products with low environmental impact. The fashion industry, one of Amazon’s leading categories, was notably absent from the list of selected startups.

Each of these companies will receive a support package estimated to be worth more than 35,000 euros through an equity-free grant, as well as AWS Activate credits (Amazon Web Services) credits and Amazon advertising credits. In addition, they will recieve expert mentorship and a tailored curriculum through the program. The organizations will be housed in a dedicated space at Amazon’s London headquarters, giving them access to the premises for one year.

This first group consists mainly of British startups, including biodegradable diaper company Cleannest, waterless shower products company Ethosa, insect-based pet food startup Grub Club Pets, sustainable home cleaning products company Home Things, food supplements brand Klir Minds, waterless laundry detergent firm Laundry Leaves, plant-based pet food brand Omni, and reusable electric toothbrush brand Suri. Other European companies include German hand sanitizer brand Adrop and vegan baby care products startup Baybies, Belgian waterless cleaning product company Yokuu, and Irish natural skincare brand Skingredients.