What is the Beyond the Bin Fund?
Opening on the 1 September 2025, the Beyond the Bin Fund is a £45,000 innovation grant from the National Cup Recycling Scheme (NCRS), administered by Valpak. The fund supports innovative solutions that increase the recycling or reuse of on-the-go paper cups in the UK.
Here’s everything you need to know. Who’s eligible, the kinds of projects we’re looking for, how to apply, and what support you could receive.
Who can apply
The Beyond the Bin Fund is open to a wide range of UK based organisations ready to make a real impact.
- Businesses and brands (e.g. coffee chains, retailers, venues)
- Local authorities and councils
- Universities and research institutions
- Startups and social enterprises
- Collaborations and partnerships (with one lead applicant)
Focus area
We’re looking for projects that drive progress in:
1. Awareness campaigns
Bold, creative behaviour change projects that promote cup recycling in workplaces, events or public spaces.
2. Recycling infrastructure improvements
Groundbreaking innovations to enhance cup collection, return, and sortation at shopping centres, travel hubs, hospitality venues, or other high-footfall locations.
3. Research projects
High-quality, novel research addressing strategically important challenges in paper cup recycling, such as improving recyclability, recovery rates, environmental performance, or evaluating the feasibility of collection through household recycling schemes.
How to apply and access guidance
Ready to bring your idea to life? Make sure you’ve read the full guidance before submitting your application. Application Form will open on 1 September 2025.
Download the documents below to get started:
If you have questions, email beyondthebin@valpak.co.uk
For more information, visit: Beyond the Bin Fund | Recycling Paper Cups