Call for Stage 1 - EXPLORE

Stage 1 focuses on diagnostic, training and networking. This stage will be two months long (May - July 2022) with a funding grant of up to EUR 5.000. You will have the opportunity to participate at the Smart City Summit (May 30-31), Impact Days ‘22 (CEs leading conference on impact investment - June 2-3), ViennaUP ’22 and the South Summit (June 8-10) in Madrid. At these events you will have the opportunity to get connected with other ventures, city representatives and investors. Please keep in mind to block these dates when applying for this stage!

What we offer​

  • Up to 25.000 euros

  • Demand owners engagement

  • Global network of investors, corporations, public institutions

  • Training sessions with international speakers in business and sustainability

  • Mentoring and coaching from experts

  • EIT Climate-KIC ecosystem to boost your start-up

  • Visibility, marketing and communication

Who should apply?

  • Ready for demonstration - you should have at least a Proof of Concept/Alpha/Beta/Prototype

  • Scalable solution

  • Potential high climate impact or significant climate adaptation

  • Your company must be incorporated (or in the legal process of incorporation) before entering the programme

  • Incorporated not more than 5 years ago

  • Based in the European Union

  • A dedicated team of minimum 2 persons

Program timeline

  • Fill out the online application form for Stage 1:  

    • Call Start Date: March 9, 2022 - 12:00 noon (CET) 

    • NEW Call End Date: April 19, 2022 - 12:00 noon (CEST) 

  • Applications must be made using the corresponding Application form (available soon on the home page!)

  • Pre-selected start-ups will pitch in front of a jury: 5 min. pitch and 5 min. Q&A 

  • If you are on the shortlist you will be informed and invited to the Jury Pitch Session by end of April 2022)

  • The Jury Pitch Sessions (online) will be on May 4/5/6, 2022. 

  • The announcement of the Stage 1 selectees will be on May 9, 2022.

  • Stage 1 of the program will start on May 12, 2022.

  • Events:

PLEASE NOTE: Keep in mind to save/block these dates already when applying to this programme in order to be able to participate in full extend and therefore get the most out of it - If you cannot participate in the events and workshops we may have to remove you from the cohort and offer the spot to another venture.