Apply to the Net Zero Challenge

The RFI Foundation’s Global Virtual Innovation (GVI) Hub, in collaboration with HSBC Bank Middle East Ltd., invites dynamic technology entrepreneurs, startups or established companies to submit applications for the GVI Hub’s 2022 Net Zero Challenge. The Net Zero Challenge is an open innovation challenge inviting companies from all over the world to develop or bring Climate Tech relevant to the financial sector (Climate FinTech) for the Middle East and North Africa.

The Net Zero Challenge seeks to attract applications from innovative technology companies that can develop solutions to tackle climate-centric challenges faced by financial institutions (Climate FinTech) in the Middle East and North Africa in establishing, tracking progress and achieving their Net Zero targets.

The Net Zero Challenge will run for 10 weeks from the close of applications culminating in a final virtual pitch.

The challenge will be delivered in five phases;
1. Complete applications process
2. Participant selection & interviews
3. Semi-finalist selection
4. Innovation bootcamp and
5. Finalists’ pitch to regional financial centers & FinTech hubs

Throughout the innovation period, ten (10) finalists will receive technical input, analytical support and dedicated coaching and mentorship from the RFI Foundation team, HSBC Middle East and other industry mentors and key stakeholders. Through this support, finalists will be inspired and learn to refine their solution pitches to support regional financial institutions’ Net Zero ambitions.

During the final pitch day, where five (5) Climate FinTech finalists will make their pitch to a panel of representatives from regional financial centers and FinTech Hubs, seeking their support to continue their growth within the region’s startup ecosystem

Finalists will pitch to FinTech Hubs who can offer various forms of support valued at more than $125,000 to help them integrate into the region’s startup ecosystem and provide a way to bring a scalable Climate FinTech solution that can be implemented by financial institutions in the Middle East and North Africa region.

Application Deadline: 21 April 2022
Informational Webinar: 14 April 2022, 4PM CET

Many thanks to Jessika Berns for sharing this!