Henkel announced the beginning of the fifth annual ‘Henkel Innovation Challenge’ international student competition. Students of all disciplines are encouraged to develop innovative a concept for a product under a Henkel brand in teams of two.

Photo: Henkel

The innovation should meet the needs of customers in the year 2030 and is to be developed for one of Henkel’s brands categories: Cosmetics/Toiletries, Laundry & Home Care or Adhesive Technologies. In addition, the product ideas and technologies must contribute to sustainable development, such as reducing energy or water consumption.

This year’s international final will be held in Poland, the home country of last year’s winners, in April 2012. The winning team will receive an around-the-world ticket and a travel voucher worth 1000 euros.

During the competition, the best teams will be assisted by experienced Henkel managers, who will mentor the process. With the ‘Henkel Innovation Challenge’ young people have an opportunity to establish valuable personal contacts with Henkel and later build their career within the company. With a slogan ‘Henkel—Excellence is our Passion’, the Germany-based company is well-known for its employees engagement.

The registration process has two steps. After a formal registration (which can also be done on the dedicated Facebook page), student tandems get access to the Participation Profile. There they can work on their idea and upload additional documents. As soon as they have finished their work, they can submit it with a few clicks. Participants have to register online until December 12.