Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Deadline: October 21, 2025
The UNICEF Climate Innovation Challenge 2025 is a groundbreaking initiative designed to empower early and growth-stage frontier tech startups working on climate-focused solutions. The program seeks bold, scalable innovations that address climate change while improving the well-being of children and communities worldwide. By leveraging technology, the challenge aims to foster impactful solutions in areas such as clean energy, sustainable food systems, water management, waste reduction, and climate resilience.
This opportunity provides startups with not only funding but also strategic partnerships, mentorship, and access to UNICEF’s global network to accelerate climate-smart technologies.
Benefits
Startups selected for the UNICEF Climate Innovation Challenge 2025 will benefit from:
- Equity-free funding to support product development and scaling.
- Mentorship and capacity building from UNICEF experts and global industry leaders.
- Access to UNICEF’s Venture Fund network, including investors and partners.
- Opportunities for pilot testing and validation of solutions in real-world contexts.
- Visibility through UNICEF’s global platforms, increasing outreach and adoption potential.
SEE ALSO: Mo Ibrahim Foundation Leadership Fellowship Programme 2026 for Emerging African Leaders (Fully Funded)
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered, applicants must:
- Be an early or growth-stage startup working on frontier technologies.
- Develop climate-tech solutions with measurable social and environmental impact.
- Demonstrate potential for scalability and sustainability.
- Have a working prototype or proven concept (idea-stage startups are not eligible).
- Be legally registered in their country of operation.
Application Process and Documents Required
The application process is completed online through the UNICEF Venture Fund portal. Required documents and details include:
- A completed online application form.
- A pitch deck detailing the startup’s innovation, business model, and scalability.
- Evidence of prototype or pilot showing traction and feasibility.
- Company registration documents.
- Team bios highlighting expertise and experience.
