2026 Circular Austin Showcase | Business Pitch Event

The City of Austin's Circular Economy team hosted the 2026 Circular Austin Showcase business pitch event on June 10, 2026, highlighting innovative circular economy startups and entrepreneurs. The event featured two divisions: an accelerator division for early-stage businesses competing for a $2,000 prize, and a showcase division for more established companies competing for a $10,000 grand prize. Presentations focused on sustainable business models that reduce waste and promote material reuse, including chemical recycling alternatives to styrofoam, circular fashion, AI-powered recycling systems for single-use cups, shared sewing studios, fitness equipment rental to extend product life, and circular wine packaging. Judges evaluated pitches based on economic, social, and environmental impact. Winners were announced, with Regenysys receiving the accelerator prize and Pickle Envy winning the grand prize. The event also emphasized the City’s zero waste goal and ongoing support for circular business innovation through coaching, networking, and internal city operations.