Saint-Gobain launches cleantech speed-dating in EU

France-based Saint-Gobain (FRA: OLG) launched its startup competition today for European companies developing cleantech technologies for construction, energy or the environment.

It's the second year of the competition, which concludes June 3 with a speed-dating style round of 10 minute interviews of the finalists by executives from Saint-Gobain, which manufactures construction and other materials. Winners will receive €15,000 each, introductions to potential investors, and help with business development.

Julien de Loynes of NOVA External Venturing, the Saint-Gobain unit that develops strategic partnerships with startups, said the strategic partnerships could include Saint-Gobain manufacturing, distributing, or incorporating the winning companies' technologies into its products. Saint-Gobain has €45 billion in sales in 2007.

"A large group like Saint-Gobain, with its industrial and commercial strength, we could accelerate the development of a startup company and help them get to market quickly," de Loynes told the Cleantech Group. "We offer them more than just money."

Last year's winners were France-based vegetalized-wall developer Plantover, France-based technology developer Sensitive Object, and Austrian-based Gapsolution, a developer of prefabricated panels for renovation of thermal insulation.

Saint-Gobain said it has already set up partnerships with two of the companies so far.

Companies wishing to participate must submit executive summaries. Information can be found here.

De Loynes said the company is considering whether to set up a similar competition in the U.S. next year.