The Caribbean Climate Innovation Center (CCIC) is encouraging prospective entrepreneurs with clean technology (cleantech) ideas to participate in the upcoming ClimateLaunchpad initiative.
The engagement is deemed potentially capable of transforming promising ideas that address climate change into impactful businesses.
ClimateLaunchpad is one of the world’s largest green business ideas competition and is designed to assist prospective entrepreneurs with innovative cleantech solutions
Clean technology is any process, product, or service that reduces negative environmental impacts through significant energy efficiency improvements, the sustainable use of resources, or environmental protection activities.
It includes a broad range of technology related to recycling, renewable energy, information technology, green transportation, electric motors, green chemistry, lighting, and grey water.
The CCIC, in partnership with the ClimateLaunchpad, Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ), Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and Scientific Research Council (SRC), is calling for next-generation innovations from local creative thinkers.
Chief Executive Officer of the CCIC, Carlinton Burrell, is upbeat in anticipation of this renewal of the initiative.
“We are looking forward to seeing some great innovative ideas and enthusiastic individuals to be a part of the programme. This is the third consecutive year CCIC is partnering with ClimateLaunchpad and we have had two very successful years previously, producing entrepreneurs such as Awganic inputs, Red Diamond compost and Uma cosmetics that are that are utilising organic products and methodologies to introduce climate-friendly solutions within new markets, not just locally but regionally,” he said.
Selected participants will undergo rigorous training, incorporating an intensive digital boot camp and coaching sessions to prepare for the national finals.
The top-three participants in each country will pitch their ideas at a regional final, with the winning teams advancing to the grand global final in October 2021.
Mr. Burrell expressed gratitude for the support from their local partners, the DBJ and SRC, noting that not only have they endorsed the initiative but have pledged their continued support for the programme.
“It is this kind of support that fosters more active and innovative ecosystems,” he added. .
The ClimateLaunchpad initiative has produced world-class entrepreneurs who are making significant strides in climate change mitigation/adaptation efforts.
The start-ups benefit from the green network, which sets them up to move forward to create climate impact.
Persons interested in entering the competition can download forms at https://climatelaunchpad.org/application-form/ .