The Phoenix Challenge Foundation is marking nearly 30 years of advancing education and workforce development within the flexographic printing industry through one of its most respected and widely recognized student competitions. For three decades, the Foundation has played a vital role in cultivating emerging talent, equipping students with hands-on experience, technical skills and business networking that directly support the future of the industry.

As part of its continued commitment to excellence, the Foundation has announced its 2026 top-tier supporters. Leading the way as Diamond Plus sponsor is Anderson & Vreeland, whose ongoing dedication has significantly strengthened educational opportunities for students nationwide.

Also recognized as the next level, Diamond, are Harper Corporation and the International Corrugated Packaging Foundation (ICPF), both longstanding advocates for industry education and innovation.

Platinum sponsors for 2026 include Graymills, Flexographic Technical Association, and Tag and Label Manufacturers Institute (TLMI), all three key organizations that continue to demonstrate exceptional leadership and support.

The Phoenix Challenge Foundation extends its sincere appreciation to these partners for their investment in the next generation of flexographic professionals and their commitment to sustaining a vibrant, skilled workforce.

“In line with the spirit of the Phoenix Challenge’s mission to expose and grow flexographic printing throughout the educational system, I cannot express the level of gratitude I have for these companies and organizations. A special thank you goes to these top supporters for their added generosity and collaboration over the years,” says Bettylyn Krafft, chair of the Phoenix Challenge Foundation.

Their annual commitments have made it possible to expose thousands of students to our industry where several hundred are thriving in careers across the converter, supplier and educational spectrum. Along with other sponsors and sponsorship level, the Phoenix Challenge Foundation is a 100% volunteer-based that is supported solely by the generosity of the printing and packaging industry.