In a bid to accelerate the energy transition and combat global warming, the Startup 4 Climate initiative is inviting Swedish startups to pitch their innovative solutions. Aimed at capping global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, this challenge seeks to support young companies that can contribute significantly to smarter, more efficient energy and transport systems.
Challenge Details and Participation Criteria
The challenge is open to Swedish registered Aktiebolag (AB) with business operations within Sweden, and less then 50 employees. It targets innovations that enhance energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, or promote sustainable consumption behaviors.
Selected startups will have the opportunity to present their ideas to a jury of experts from the fields of entrepreneurship, energy, green technology, and climate action. The winner will receive a grand prize of SEK 2 million to help further develop and implement their innovative solutions.
Evaluation Criteria
Entries will be evaluated based on their potential climate impact, feasibility, profitability, uniqueness, and an emotional response from the jury. Participants are encouraged to deliver a compelling pitch that not only highlights the uniqueness of their idea but also its practical applicability and potential market success.
The final pitch event is scheduled for November 14, where shortlisted startups will present their ideas in a 10-minute pitch using prototypes and digital presentation tools if applicable. While the event promises significant visibility and networking opportunities, participants are responsible for their own travel and accommodation expenses.
Winning the challenge does not alter ownership rights; the innovating company retains full control over their work.
This challenge offers a platform for startups to showcase their solutions to a critical global issue, with the potential to secure funding and gain expert insights to propel their projects forward. Interested companies are encouraged to apply, bringing their best ideas to the table for a chance to make a real difference in the global energy landscape.
2023 Winners: Pioneering in Fossil-Free Cement and Hybrid Renewable Energy
Last year’s competition highlighted the innovative strengths of startups Cemvision and Novige, which won over the jury with their exceptional contributions to sustainable technologies. Each startup received SEK 1 million and expert coaching to further develop their projects. Cemvision introduced a fossil-free, energy-efficient, and circular cement solution, significantly reducing the reliance on limestone by extracting calcium oxide from industrial waste. This innovation could cut global cement emissions—a major contributor to global CO2 output.
Novige presented a novel wave power solution combined with solar and wind energy, using lighter units that maximize energy generation efficiency. Their approach modernizes wave power technology with simpler, more cost-effective components, signaling a major advance in renewable energy technologies.
Read more here: startup4climate.com
