Deadline: September 1, 2025
Are you building solutions for a sustainable, low-carbon future? The Net Zero Challenge 2025 invites innovators, startups, and research groups from around the world to pilot their climate-tech solutions in Vietnam, with access to equity-free funding, tailored mentorship, and unmatched exposure to investors and implementation partners.
Organised by Touchstone Partners and Temasek Foundation, in collaboration with the Ho Chi Minh City Institute for Development Studies (HIDS), the Net Zero Challenge 2025 stands as Vietnam’s largest climate innovation competition—now in its third year.
What is the Net Zero Challenge 2025?
The Net Zero Challenge 2025 is a global platform created to accelerate early-stage, commercially viable climate-tech solutions with real-world impact in Vietnam. With a focus on pilot deployment, strategic mentoring, and climate finance matchmaking, the programme connects international innovators with Vietnamese ecosystems for deep collaboration and scale.
Prizes and Benefits
Winners and selected finalists will gain access to:
- VND 15 billion (~USD 590,000) in equity-free grant funding for three winning teams.
- VND 6 billion (~USD 230,000) in in-kind support and investment-readiness services.
- Access to investors, corporate partners, and Vietnam’s public sector ecosystem.
- Customised mentorship from leading climate-tech experts.
- Pilot implementation of solutions across real-world sites in Vietnam.
Programme partners include GS Engineering & Construction, AWS, Investible, and AiViet Ventures.
Focus Tracks for 2025
Applications are invited across the following priority areas:
- Renewables & Carbon Removal
- Clean energy, carbon capture and storage, carbon credits, and emission-reducing technologies.
- Food Systems & Sustainable Agriculture
- Smart farming, agri-tech, regenerative practices, and alternative proteins.
- Circular Economy & Waste Management
- Waste-to-value innovations, recycling systems, composting, and biodegradable materials.
Who is Eligible?
You can apply if you are:
- A startup, research team, NGO, or company with a pilot-ready solution.
- Already working with a minimum viable product (MVP) or validated prototype.
- Open to piloting your innovation in Vietnam with local partners.
- Focused on commercial viability and scalability for regional or global impact.
International applicants are welcome—previous editions saw participation from over 55 countries.
Timeline
| Phase | Date |
|---|---|
| Launch & Applications Open | 15 July 2025 |
| Deadline to Apply | 1 September 2025 |
| Finalist Announcement & Mentorship | October 2025 |
| Grand Finale & Award Ceremony | November 2025 |
Impact of Previous Editions
In 2024, the Net Zero Challenge attracted over 500 applications globally. Selected innovations included:
- A Canadian CO₂ capture tech reducing emissions by up to 90%
- An Australian packaging solution cutting plastic waste by over 20%
- A Singaporean carbon product made from agricultural waste at 60% lower cost
These teams not only won funding but piloted successfully within Vietnam’s industry sectors.
How to Apply
The application process is divided into four short stages:
- General Information
- Project Overview
- Pilot Plan
- Supporting Materials Upload
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is highly recommended.
👉 Apply for the Net Zero Challenge 2025 here
🔗 Click here to read more about the Net Zero Challenge 2025
Final Thoughts
If you’re solving climate-related challenges with innovative tech, the Net Zero Challenge 2025 is your opportunity to test and scale your solution in one of Southeast Asia’s most forward-looking green markets. Don’t miss this chance to win funding, gain visibility, and make real environmental impact.
📧 For proposal drafting, refining, and review support—contact grantsdatabase.org.
