Applications are now open for Net Zero Challenge 2026, a global climate-tech competition supporting solutions with the potential to be piloted, commercialized, and scaled in Vietnam. The program connects innovators with funding, mentorship, investors, corporate partners, and opportunities to demonstrate their technologies in real-world settings.
Program Focus & Tracks
The competition is organized across three tracks addressing key environmental and economic transition challenges in Vietnam:
• Renewables & Carbon Removal
• Food Systems & Sustainable Agriculture
• Circular Economy & Waste Management
Solutions may address areas such as renewable energy, energy storage, grid modernization, energy efficiency, green hydrogen, carbon measurement and removal, sustainable agriculture, aquaculture, recycling, plastic alternatives, and waste-management infrastructure.
Funding & Support
Selected teams will have access to a comprehensive package of funding and program support:
• Equity-Free Funding: VND 15 billion in non-equity catalytic funding will be awarded to the three winning teams to support pilot implementation in Vietnam.
• Additional Awards: More than VND 6 billion in investment prizes and additional support will be provided by partner venture funds and enterprises.
• Pilot Opportunities: Finalists may access structured pilot opportunities through the program’s corporate and government partner network.
• Market Access: Participants can gain mentorship, investor connections, strategic partnerships, and support for entering or expanding within the Vietnamese market.
Applicant Eligibility
The competition welcomes applications from:
• Startups
• Research groups
• Corporate ventures
• Nonprofit organizations
• International teams seeking to enter the Vietnamese market or establish local partnerships
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
• Product Stage: The team must have developed a minimum viable product.
• Pilot Plan: The applicant must have a clear plan to demonstrate the solution’s value through a pilot project in Vietnam.
• Commercial Intent: The solution must have a clear commercialization direction.
• Vietnam Readiness: The team must be prepared to pilot and implement its solution within Vietnam.
Eligible Solution Types
The program accepts technology-based solutions, including but not limited to:
• Software and artificial intelligence
• Hardware and deep technology
• Food technology and agricultural technology
• New materials and clean-energy technologies
• Bioengineering and chemical-engineering innovations
• New industrial or environmental processes
• Technology-enabled business models
Solution Requirements
Eligible solutions should demonstrate the following characteristics:
• Adoption & Scalability: Strong potential for commercial viability, widespread adoption, and growth.
• Vietnam Relevance: Clear suitability for Vietnam’s environmental, economic, industrial, or agricultural context.
• Implementation Plan: A practical and clearly defined plan for piloting and implementing the solution in Vietnam.
• Commercialization Potential: A credible pathway from pilot implementation to broader market deployment.
Application Details
• Applications Open: 1 July 2026
• Application Deadline: 31 August 2026
• Grand Finale: 12 November 2026
Net Zero Challenge 2026 offers climate-tech innovators an opportunity to validate their solutions, access non-dilutive funding, build strategic partnerships, and establish a pathway toward commercialization in Vietnam. Eligible applicants are encouraged to review the official guidelines and submit their applications before the deadline.