Behind the scenes of the ClimateLaunchpad programme*
We often say it: ClimateLaunchpad is so much more than just a competition. It’s a journey, one that teaches start-ups how to build and sustain a successful business. It’s almost like the Olympics – participation is often more valuable than winning.
While it’s great to have innovative ideas that positively impact the world, there’s also the challenge of making these ideas financially viable. But how does ClimateLaunchpad help start-ups achieve this? What does the programme look like behind the scenes?
Applications – get selected
Each year, national leads step up in countries across the globe. These professionals and organisations share ClimateLaunchpad’s vision and goals. They organise local programmes, and one of their key responsibilities is selecting the start-ups that will participate in the bootcamps.
This process is far from easy – there are always more great initiatives than spots available for the next round. The application phase is highly competitive, and only the most promising ideas make it through.
Bootcamps – building your business
Over the course of several months, selected start-ups undergo intense workshops and bootcamps. The format can vary by country. In some places, it’s organised like a hackathon, with participants fully immersed for a few days. In others, workshops take place every few weeks, with participants working on tasks between sessions.
Despite the variations in how the programme is delivered, all start-ups receive the same foundational training. They are guided through the process of defining their purpose as entrepreneurs, gaining a clear understanding of their target market, and identifying the unique value they bring. A crucial part of the journey involves ensuring their business can be financially sustainable, which includes the creation of a solid business plan.
Another key focus is understanding the environmental impact of their product or service. Start-ups learn how to assess their climate footprint and make it visible through data, ensuring they can demonstrate the positive changes their ideas bring to the world.
Once these elements are in place, participants develop a pitch deck designed to convince stakeholders that their idea has real potential. This is what they take into the national finals.
A wealth of benefits – beyond the finals
What start-ups gain during the bootcamps is much more than a ticket to the finals. They leave with a far better understanding of how to run a successful business. They gain inspiration from fellow participants, build their network, both locally and internationally, and sharpen their ability to communicate their ideas.
This means that even if they don’t make it to the finals, they have still secured significant, lasting benefits. In fact, these learnings and connections may be even more valuable than winning itself.
In short, ClimateLaunchpad is not just about the final pitch. It’s about the growth, the mentorship, and the community that start-ups gain along the way – the elements that fuel their success long after the competition is over.
