The Asia Green Energy Innovation Challenge is returning for its second edition, continuing its mission to foster sustainable energy solutions by connecting visionary innovators from China and Singapore. This cross-border initiative, co-hosted by Tsinghua University’s X-lab and NUS Enterprise’s BLOCK71, is designed to empower founders who are addressing significant global energy challenges. The 2026 program will select 20 top-tier start-ups, ten from each country, to collaborate and advance the development of a greener future.
Challenge Themes
• Green & Renewable Energy: Innovations in Solar, Wind, Hydrogen, Emerging Renewables, and Clean Energy Generation.
• Energy Storage & Grid Resilience: Solutions for Battery / Long-duration Storage, Hybrid Systems, Grid Optimisation, and Flexible Energy Infrastructure.
• Smart Grids & Decentralised Systems: Focus on DERs, Microgrids, Virtual Power Plants, Energy Access, and Next-Generation Distribution Models.
• AI, Digitalisation & Energy Efficiency: Development of AI/ML Solutions, Digital Twins, Data-driven Optimisation, Predictive Analytics, and Intelligent Energy Management.
• Clean Fuels & Industrial Decarbonisation: Technologies for Hydrogen, Low-Carbon Fuels, Carbon Capture, Hard-to-Abate Sectors, and Industrial Emissions Reduction.
• Circular & Sustainable Energy Systems: Innovations in Recycling, Waste-to-Energy, Sustainable Materials, and Circular Economy Solutions for the Energy Value Chain.
Prizes and Awards
The challenge features a total cash prize pool of up to S$750,000, awarded to the highest-scoring teams regardless of their home country. The prizes are equity-free grants.
• Grand Prize: S$300,000 for one winner.
• 1st Runner-up: S$150,000 for each of two winners.
• 2nd Runner-up: S$50,000 for each of three winners.
Program Timeline
The program follows a structured timeline from application to the final demo day.
• Application Period: 19 January – 29 March
• Screening & Selection: 1 April – 24 April
• Shortlisting & Announcement: 30 April
• Pre-Arrival Briefing: 5 June
• China Immersion Programme: 22 June – 26 June in Beijing
• Demo Day: 26 June 2026
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet several criteria to qualify for the challenge.
• Commitment: Must commit to the full in-person program in Beijing from 22-26 June 2026.
• Product Readiness: Start-ups should have at least a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and a technology readiness level (TRL) between 4 and 7.
• Geographic Scope: The challenge is open to startups based in the Asia-Pacific region, including those with plans for regional or cross-border expansion.
• Incorporation Status: Teams are not required to be incorporated at the time of application but should be prepared to incorporate within six months of the program if selected.
• Sector Relevance: Solutions must align with at least one of the challenge's key themes and demonstrate significant potential for measurable impact.
Participation Details
Key details for selected participants are outlined below.
• Program Fees: There are no fees to participate in the challenge.
• Sponsorship: Flight and accommodation will be provided for up to two members per team.
• Team Participation: Additional team members may join at their own expense, subject to organizer confirmation and space availability.
• Visa Support: While visa fees are not covered, organizers will provide official invitation letters and guidance to support the application process.
• Prototype: While not mandatory, having a proof of concept or an early-stage product strengthens an application.
• Prize Equity: All cash prizes are non-equity grants, meaning the program takes no ownership stake in winning companies.
This initiative represents a significant opportunity for startups in the green energy sector to gain exposure, receive mentorship, and secure funding. The collaboration between Tsinghua University’s X-lab and NUS Enterprise’s BLOCK71 provides a unique platform for founders to test their solutions, connect with industry leaders, and accelerate their growth on an international stage.