Deadline: May 4, 2026
The ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2026 is now open for applications! This global competition invites innovators, entrepreneurs, and researchers from around the world to present breakthrough solutions in Sustainable Chemistry, with a special focus on electronics.
Organised by the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre (ISC3), the challenge seeks creative ideas that make the electronics sector more sustainable — from design and materials to manufacturing and recycling.
About the ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2026
Each year, the ISC3 Innovation Challenge spotlights a key area where sustainable chemistry can accelerate global impact. The 2026 edition focuses on sustainability in electronics, encouraging innovations that rethink how electronic devices are produced, used, and recovered.
Through this initiative, ISC3 aims to identify and support outstanding entrepreneurs who are developing chemical-based solutions that contribute to a circular and climate-friendly electronics industry.
Focus Areas
Innovators are encouraged to submit ideas and projects addressing one or more of the following areas:
- Eco-design: Developing electronic products with enhanced durability, repairability, and recyclability.
- Sustainable materials: Reducing the use of hazardous or critical substances and promoting greener alternatives.
- Resource-efficient manufacturing: Introducing chemical methods and processes that save energy and minimise waste.
- E-waste recycling and recovery: Creating chemical or process innovations for the circular economy, enabling better material recovery from electronic waste.
These focus areas reflect the ISC3’s commitment to advancing sustainable chemistry as a key driver for environmental protection and innovation in industry.
Who Can Apply
The ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2026 is open to:
- Innovators, entrepreneurs, and project owners working on sustainable chemistry solutions.
- Start-ups, small enterprises, and research teams involved in green technology or chemical innovation.
- Organisations with fewer than 50 employees and an annual turnover below €10 million.
- Women-led ventures and teams from developing regions are especially encouraged to apply.
Applicants should demonstrate a clear link between their work and the principles of sustainable chemistry, alongside the potential for real-world environmental and social impact.
Prizes and Benefits
A total prize pool of €25,000 will be awarded, distributed as follows:
- €15,000 for the overall winner.
- €5,000 each for two “Special Impact” award categories, such as social or regional impact.
In addition to the cash prizes, selected finalists will receive:
- Pitch training to enhance their presentation and communication skills.
- Visibility and promotion across ISC3’s global platforms.
- Networking and matchmaking opportunities with investors, industry leaders, and stakeholders.
- Ongoing support through the ISC3 Global Start-up Service, which provides mentoring, coaching, and expert guidance.
This combination of financial support and exposure makes the ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2026 a valuable platform for scaling sustainable chemistry innovations worldwide.
Key Dates
- Application deadline: 4 May 2026 (CET)
Early application is encouraged to ensure adequate time for review and selection.
How to Apply
Applications for the ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2026 are submitted online through the official ISC3 application portal. Interested innovators are invited to carefully review the eligibility criteria and prepare a concise yet compelling proposal that highlights innovation, impact, and feasibility.
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
