APPLY
Have an idea that could change the planet? Or want to help build one?
This is where clean technology meets entrepreneurial action.
Applications for the Cleantech Challenge 2026 are now open.
The Cleantech Challenge allows you to apply as an individual or as a team
Don’t have an idea yet—or don’t have a team?
Apply as an individual and tell us what interests you. We’ll match you with a team based on shared motivation and complementary skills.
Stage 1 — Your idea
Deadline: 16 January 2026 (23:59 GMT)
Stage 1 is about potential.
You’ll submit a short written entry outlining your clean technology idea and its impact.
We’re looking for ideas that show promise across areas such as:
Maturity of the technology
Cost and scalability
Feasibility of implementation
Revenue streams
Target market
Competitive advantage
Social acceptability
Alignment with government policies
How Stage 1 is judged:
Clear, well-structured ideas within the word limit
Meaningful, positive environmental impact
Innovation (new ideas or new applications of existing solutions)
Technical feasibility and commercial viability
Successful teams will be invited to Stage 2.
Stage 2 — Your pitch
Deadline: 16 February 2026
Stage 2 is about storytelling and strategy.
Selected teams will submit an investor-style pitch deck:
Maximum 10 slides
Submitted as a PDF
Your deck should reflect what you’d present to early-stage investors, covering:
Business idea
Environmental impact (and how it’s measured)
Market opportunity
Unit economics and profitability
Competitive landscape
Defensibility
Monetisation strategy
Funding required
Team background
If successful, you’ll be invited to the in-person Finals.
Finals — Bring it to life
22–23 April 2026 | London Business School
Finalist teams will attend a two-day, in-person Bootcamp and Final.
What happens at the Finals:
Meet the organising team and fellow finalists
Work closely with experienced CleanTech mentors
Refine your pitch with expert feedback
Present to a panel of judges
The final pitches take place on 23 April, followed by:
Judge deliberation
Prize announcements
A networking and drinks reception at London Business School
Attendance in person is required for finalist teams.