The German Energy Agency (dena) has issued a last call for applications to the StartUp Energy Transition Award, looking for global startups with innovations promoting sustainable energy solutions.
The international competition brings together more than 70 partners in more than 25 countries, to look for the world’s top startups innovating around sustainable energy transition.
Awards will be made in five categories: urban energy transition; mobility meets energy transition; cleantech against climate change; platforms and communities; and future production and manufacturing.
A special prize will also be awarded to a startup comprehensively addressing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7, which focuses on sustainable energy for all – ending global energy poverty.
The top three startups in each category will be invited to present at the Start Up Energy Transition Tech Festival in Berlin, Germany, to be held on March 20. All 18 teams will receive coaching during their time in Berlin, and the six winners will receive cash prizes.
At the event, the finalists can also request meetings with preferred experts and investors, and these “matches” will be arranged.
“Global energy transition is one of the biggest challenges in human history. But it is also an amazing opportunity for combining innovative business and political will to create a sustainable energy solution for the planet to prevent climate change. Tomorrow’s energy system is already in the making — an endeavor in which established players and startups fight side by side,” said Andreas Kuhlman, chief executive of dena.
“We know, our goals for a sustainable future are ambitious. They will include a wide range of sectors and need a focus on innovation. That’s why dena and its partners have initiated the Start Up Energy Transition Award.”
To be eligible, startups must not have been in operation for more than five years – except in the cleantech against climate change category, for which the cut off is 10 years -; and must have a prototype. Entrants must be able to explain their revenue model, vision for global energy transition, and the consumer benefits of their solution.
Applications can be made here, until January 31.