The SEEDplus project, funded by the European Innovation Council and SME Executive Agency (EISMEA), is pleased to announce an exclusive two-stage startup competition aimed at promoting innovation, environmental sustainability and entrepreneurship in the European Union and among young entrepreneurs.
We invite startups that directly contribute to environmental sustainability with their products or services – for example, in the field of renewable energy, clean technology, sustainable agriculture, water conservation, waste management, reducing the carbon footprint, promoting sustainable cities, striving for net-zero emissions or applications deep technologies to solve environmental problems This competition also applies to all start-ups from different sectors operating with a business model that complies with the EU taxonomy for sustainable activities. Your initiative plays a decisive role. We encourage a wide range of innovation, aiming to support diverse businesses that work together to push the boundaries of environmental sustainability.
Who can apply?
Inclusive Teams: Startup teams must include at least one student (Bachelor, Master or PhD).
EU Based: Your startup must be registered in the European Union or an associated country, demonstrating our commitment to regional development and innovation. For unregistered startups, it is necessary that part of the team is located within the EU. In addition, there should be a strict obligation to register a startup in the EU if it wins an international competition.
Women Founders: Startups with female founders are encouraged to apply, highlighting our commitment to diversity and inclusion in the tech ecosystem.
Event language: hybrid! Teams can communicate with each other in any convenient language, but present their development exclusively in English. Therefore, your level must be sufficient to present your startup to international jury members.
When: May 21, 2024
Time: 11 am Kyiv time
Where: Blvd.: Vernadskogo Boulevard, 36, Kyiv, Ukraine, 03142 (KAU)
Competition structure
Two-step approach:
The competition starts with national competitions in Tromso, Kyiv and Varna at the end of May 2024. Participants can join the competition in person or online.
The top three startups from each location will receive financial support to participate in the international SEEDplus competition in Lisbon in September/October 2024.
Judging Criteria: Success in the competition depends on the quality and maturity of your business idea, the quality of your pitch and the ability of your team to answer the questions of the selection committee.
Awards
National Winners: Nine startups (three from each national competition) will receive financial support to participate in the international SEEDplus competition.
Grand Prize: The winner of the international competition will receive a three-month free acceleration program designed specifically to accelerate the development of your startup. This exclusive program is developed by our business partners, experienced experts in startup development and unlocking entrepreneurial potential.
Application deadline
Mark your calendars: the deadline for expressions of interest and application is May 15, 2024.
Join us in creating a sustainable future!
This is more than a competition, it is a launching pad for the next generation of permanent businesses. If your startup is ready to make a big impact on the environment and society, we want to support you along the way. Apply now to start sparking innovation, mentorship and growth.
If you have any questions or need clarification, please contact us o.voropai@kau.edu.ua