The Climate-KIC initiative brings together players from business, science and the public and private sectors to discuss and foster innovative solutions against climate change. Through the DACH Climate-KIC accelerator, the initiative offers startups a platform to further develop their ideas and transform them into competitive products and services. Eligible to participate are early-stage startups and teams with cleantech solutions.
The acceleration program is organized in three phases, each with a duration of six months. During the acceleration, selected startups receive guidance from the Climate Kic team accompanied with workshops, pitching opportunities, matchmaking with investors, access to a European and international Climate-KIC network, and location-specific offers in Berlin, Munich, Zurich and Vienna. The program also offers financial support at each stage of € 20,000, €25,000 and €40,000, respectively, without exchange for equity.
Last year the Swiss Startup Pickwings participated in all stages of the program receiving the maximum award prize. While the current cohort, comprising of nine startups, in the winter Batch continues to be in the accelerator, the registration for the 2019 summer program has kicked off and will close on 27 January 2019.
Additionally, teams can apply for the Side Call with Munich Re and ERGO. Last year, Munich Re and Ergo entered a partnership with the Climate-KIC DACH Accelerator to support the most promising sustainability startups in creating impact. Selected startups and teams will gain access to mentors and sustainability coaches, obtain insights from the insurance industry, and receive additional financial support of €10,000 bringing the total award prize to €95,000. Ten startups including Daphne and Hades from Switzerland have already benefited from the Side Call. (RAN)