The Paperboard Packaging Alliance (PPA) has announced the finalists for its 2025 Student Design Challenge, an annual competition showcasing innovative paperboard packaging concepts from university students across the U.S.
This year’s challenge asked participants to design a packaging line for a fictional pet care company, PPA Pets, including a pet DNA testing kit or a similar lab-based item. Three student teams advanced as finalists: PAWSH and Teef Story from California Polytechnic State University, and Protection Prevention & Awareness for Pets from Rochester Institute of Technology.
“The Student Design Challenge empowers students nationwide to turn bold ideas into recyclable, paper-based packaging solutions,” said Heidi Brock, President and CEO of the American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA).
Winners will be announced at the Paperboard Packaging Council’s Spring Outlook & Strategies Conference, scheduled for March 25–27, 2026, in Louisville, Kentucky. Finalist teams will present their prototypes to industry leaders, gaining exposure and insights into professional packaging design.
“The Challenge shines a spotlight on the possibilities of sustainable paperboard packaging,” added Ben Markens, President of the Paperboard Packaging Council (PPC).
The Paperboard Packaging Alliance is a joint initiative of the American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) and the Paperboard Packaging Council (PPC). Its mission is to promote the benefits of paperboard packaging and support the next generation of designers through education, competitions, and scholarships.
