Due: March 19, 2026
A multi-billion-dollar global candy manufacturing company wants to optimize their production of sugar-free candies and gums. The company seeks experts in the chemistry of sugar-free candies and coatings as well as the impacts of application and processing technologies.
Background
The production of high-quality sugar-free gums and candies relies on specialized knowledge and experience from a broad range of experts. From food chemists to process and application engineers, experts help deliver a positive consumer experience. TechConnect’s client, an international leader in gums and candies, wants to establish relationships with outside SMEs to optimize their manufacturing processes.
The client is interested in various aspects of sugar-free gum and candy production including:
- Product chemistry
- Coatings
- Process engineering
- Application engineering
Consultation topics may include, but are not limited to:
- Reaction chemistry between liquid centers and gum polymers, and/or between gum polymers and coatings;
- Impact of application equipment on immediate products and/or final products;
- Process optimization;
- Shelf stability of final products;
- Quality control of evaluations
The client will begin consulting with select subject matter experts (SMEs) in Q2 2026. The client may also choose to collaborate with SMEs through contract research agreements as well, depending on experience and capabilities. The goal of this sprint is to facilitate contact and interactions between the sponsor and commercial entities including startups, technology developers or research organization/university in this space.
Requirements
Solvers submitting an entry are encouraged to highlight capabilities in their submission that meet criteria including:
- Knowledge of sugar-free gum and candy chemistry or processing
- Knowledge of coatings for sugar-free gum and candy, including experience with specific sugar-free sweeteners
- Previous collaborations with the food industry
- Previous experience with food product optimization efforts
Business Opportunity for Solvers
Respondents with well-matched capabilities may be contacted directly by either TechConnect or the client to discuss potential partnership opportunities, including but not limited to demonstrations, consulting, contract research, licensing, and more. Top-rated entries may also be invited to register or participate in an upcoming TechConnect event or pitch program.
Response Process
Interested individuals and organizations are encouraged to submit a brief, high-level, non-confidential response via the online form below. Respondents should highlight unique aspects of the company and technology or experience as they relate to this topic. Additionally, respondents should consult the requirements list as it provides insight into the information sought by the client.
In addition to the online form, additional information may be provided in the form of supporting documentation such as company or product brochures, technical or research papers, or letters of support from third-party organizations. While not required, these additional documents can provide additional information for a client to consider.