The world’s largest green business ideas competition, ClimateLaunchpad, is inviting passionate innovators, entrepreneurs, and visionaries to submit their groundbreaking cleantech ideas aimed at combating climate change. This global initiative, organized by EIT Climate-KIC and co-funded by the European Union, has positioned itself as a catalyst for green business ideas, aiming to foster innovative solutions into sustainable startups.
In 2017, Kenya Climate Innovation Center was a pioneer in bringing ClimateLaunchpad to Africa. That same year, a Kenyan entrepreneur- Boniface Jiveri of Alkagel- won the Global Grand Final. The competition has since spread to other African countries such as Nigeria and Tanzania. ClimateLaunchpad aligns seamlessly with KCIC’s dedication to building a robust ecosystem of green entrepreneurs. The competition extends its arms to a diverse range of participants – from startups and SMEs to researchers, students, public organizations, and engineering companies.
As a country, we stand to benefit greatly from the tailored solutions that ClimateLaunchpad aims to foster. The competition encourages participants to explore cleantech ideas in areas such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, food and agriculture, water, transportation, and industrial technology – all crucial sectors for Kenya’s sustainable development.
For the participating Kenyan entrepreneurs, the journey through ClimateLaunchpad is a transformative one. They will be taken through an intensive Boot Camp and follow-up Coaching Sessions with the best trainers to gain valuable insights into starting and growing their green businesses, thereby creating a ripple effect that extends beyond the competition’s timeframe.
How it Works: Entrants submit their cleantech ideas, which are reviewed, and selected ideas receive an invitation to join the competition. A series of training sessions, coaching, and pitch events follow, culminating in regional and global finals.
What to Expect: Participants can anticipate a transformative journey through the following stages:
- Train: An intensive Boot Camp and follow-up Coaching Sessions to equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to kickstart their green businesses.
- Compete: National competitions and a Grand Final where participants will showcase their ideas to a global audience and compete for substantial prize money.
- Launch: Top ten winners move on to the prestigious Climate-KIC Accelerator program, providing a platform for great ideas to evolve into successful businesses.
The National Finalists in Kenya are set to receive prizes in-kind, organized by the Kenya Climate Innovation Centre. Beyond tangible rewards, participants gain a wealth of skills, knowledge, and networking opportunities, further enhancing their capacity to thrive in the green business landscape.
What Can You Win: Winners can expect in-kind prizes at the National Finals, with the overall winner of the African Regional Final receiving €4500, the runner-up €2000, and the third-place idea €1000. Additionally, participants gain invaluable skills, knowledge, and networking opportunities to propel their businesses forward.
A Call to Kenyan Innovators:
The application deadline for ClimateLaunchpad is set for 7th June 2024. This is a call to all Kenyan visionaries with cleantech ideas to step forward, be part of the ClimateLaunchpad journey, and contribute to the global mission of combating climate change. Learn more on eligibility and apply at ClimateLaunchpad Application Form.
