The DPI for People and Planet Challenge is a global innovation initiative designed to ignite digital climate solutions that are scalable, inclusive, and impactful. This first-of-its-kind program invites startups, research teams, nonprofits, and enterprises to design, test, and scale digital public infrastructure (DPI)-enabled solutions that tackle urgent environmental challenges.
Launched in partnership with JICA, Co-Develop, the Gates Foundation, CDPI, BCG, and the COP30 Presidency, the challenge aims to go beyond buzzwords—supporting real pilots, global recognition, and ecosystem partnerships.
About the Challenge
- Designed to identify climate-tech solutions that integrate DPI for real-world deployment.
- Supports early-stage experimentation and mature ventures alike.
- Culminates in a live pitch at COP30 in Brazil for the top 5 finalists.
- Focused on high-priority sectors: energy, transport, biodiversity, agriculture, disaster resilience, water, and public health.
- Encourages cross-cutting solutions that span multiple domains, such as climate finance and emissions reporting.
Eligibility Criteria
Applications are open to legally registered organizations worldwide:
- Startups & SMEs
- Social enterprises & nonprofits
- University research labs & think tanks
Indicative Use Cases
Energy
- Real-time grid optimization using DPI-based forecasting
- Decentralized marketplaces for biofuels
Transport
- Integrated mobility platforms with green transport rewards
- Dynamic congestion management via DPI data
Agriculture
- Climate-smart farming platforms with payment rails
- Verified sustainability practices through DPI registration
Disaster Resilience
- Pre-disaster alerts and cash transfers enabled via digital ID and payments
Forests & Biodiversity
- Streamlined carbon credit validation
- Remote forest health monitoring
Water
- Real-time water quality management using AI and DPI
Public Health
- Outbreak tracking and population-level risk alerts
Cross-sectoral Innovation
- Carbon credit credibility tools using harmonized metadata
- Industrial GHG dashboards with integrated compliance data
Rewards & Support
- Up to $100,000 in grant funding to develop and test prototypes
- Top 5 finalists pitch at COP30 in Brazil
- Post-challenge support including mentorship, investor access, and implementation guidance
- Global exposure and networking with DPI leaders, funders, and governments
Timeline
- June 27, 2025 – Registration closes
- July 11, 2025 – Application deadline
- August 2025 – Round 1: Top 30–50 selected
- September 2025 – Round 2: Top 10 finalists
- October 2025 – Finalist mentoring & Top 5 selection
- November 2025 – Final showcase at COP30, Brazil
Selection & Evaluation Process
Round 1: Concept Design
- Group workshops
- Technical and user wireframes
- Evaluation on feasibility, relevance, and user feedback
Round 2: Prototype & Business Plan
- 1-on-1 tech & business mentorship
- Business model, implementation plan, monetization
Evaluation Criteria
- Relevance of problem
- Innovation and clarity of solution
- Technical feasibility
- Scalability and impact
- Strength of team
Are you building for both people and planet? Apply now to be part of a new generation of climate innovators using DPI to drive systemic impact.
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