Guelph-based Fill it Forward (FiF), a company inspiring the world to reuse through its interactive technologies, global giving initiatives and sustainable products, has been selected as the only Canadian winner of the global competition Beyond The Bag Innovation Challenge.
The Beyond The Bag Challenge sought out future-forward, tech-enabled solutions that would help to minimize or eliminate the need for single-use retail bags altogether to create a more sustainable, waste-free future for retail.
The challenge was put on by the Center for the Circular Economy at Closed Loop Partners and in partnership with leading US-based retailers such as Target and Walmart.
FiF is one of only nine winners selected from 450+ submissions across 60 countries.
Consistent with existing company efforts and products, Fill it Forward’s winning submission drives engagement and usability of bags already in circulation. The app-based technology will allow shoppers to scan a Fill it Forward tag attached to their reusable bag to track their environmental impact, earn rewards, and give back by contributing to meaningful charitable projects.
As part of the win, Fill it Forward has also been accepted into the Circular Accelerator program to receive further assistance in scaling their solutions.
"We at Fill it Forward are incredibly proud and excited to be chosen as a winner of the Beyond the Bag Initiative,” said Matt Wittek, CEO and Founder of the Fill it Forward Company. “This acknowledgement and collaborative opportunity with all involved provides a unique platform to drive positive and innovation-driven sustainable practices. We’re honoured to be involved and have the opportunity to bring our solutions to this widespread effort.”
For more information on Fill it Forward, their app-based tracking and giving model, or their Beyond the Bag Initiative participation, please visit www.fillitforward.com.