The Microsoft Innovation Center for Sustainability Solutions (MICSS) has launched its inaugural Singapore GreenTech Challenge, calling for the city’s tech startup to develop sustainability solutions in line with priorities from the Singapore Green Plan.
MICSS, together with ecosystem partners including Carbonless, Interseed, Avanade, EcoLabs, FINLAB by UOB, and NCS, will work with participants to develop enterprise solutions around Energy Reset, Green Economy, City in Nature, Resilient Future, and Sustainable Living.
The challenge is open to all early to mid-stage eco-tech startups with a software-based solution that addresses environmental or social challenges. The call for participation is open until December 5.
"As a trusted ally to Singapore, Microsoft continues to foster robust partnerships that empower our start-ups and communities to create sustainable digital innovation across the Microsoft Cloud with data and AI,” said Tarun Shiroley, partnership development manager (ISV), Microsoft Singapore.
Through the Singapore GreenTech Challenge, Microsoft aims to encourage collaboration and co-innovation between emerging eco-tech solution providers and like-minded corporates. The challenge will also bolster Singapore's position as a regional testbed for innovation, as its community creates relevant, scalable, and deployable business solutions that target the country's most pressing sustainability challenges.
During the challenge, companies will be matched with renowned experts from Carbonless and Interseed, who will offer personalised coaching and mentorship to help companies develop their solutions. This includes complimentary access to technology and support under the Microsoft for Startups program, with grants of up to S$150,000 in Azure credits, as well as development and collaborative tools such as GitHub and Microsoft Teams.
“By focusing on operationalising real-world solutions for the Singapore Green Plan together with our community, we continue to build collaboration and co-innovation across the ecosystem as we contribute to a resilient, digitally-inclusive Singapore," Shiroley said.
In the lead-up to the finals, 15 to 25 companies will be shortlisted to present their solutions to a judging panel of industry experts, which will consist of ecosystem partners and leaders in the sustainability space. This will allow finalists to connect and engage with potential clients, receive expert advice, and gain exposure to resources and opportunities, all of which will help to accelerate their business growth. Microsoft will also work closely with these start-ups to bring their solutions to life on Azure.
The winner will take home S$350,000 worth of benefits and will be able to tap the rich knowledge and expertise of Microsoft's network of partners to grow and scale their sustainability solutions, powered by the Microsoft Cloud.
