Asia Green Energy Innovation Challenge
About
Unleash your potential in the Asia Green Energy Innovation Challenge, where visionary minds from China and Singapore converge to revolutionise sustainable energy solutions.
Co-hosted by Tsinghua University’s pioneering X-lab and NUS Enterprise’s globally renowned BLOCK71, this exclusive programme empowers bold innovators to tackle pressing global energy challenges. With 10 top-tier start-ups from each nation, this competition is set to spark transformative breakthroughs and drive a greener, more sustainable future.
Challenge Tracks
Track 1 - Harvesting Green Energy
Focus: Maximising efficiency and scalability in renewable energy generation
Track 2 - Storage and Grid Resilience
Focus: Advancing energy storage solutions and intelligent grids for a stable energy future
Track 3 - Distribution and Energy Access
Focus: Transforming how energy is delivered, ensuring universal and equitable access
Track 4 - AI for Energy Optimisation
Focus: Leveraging artificial intelligence to optimise energy systems
Track 5 - Emerging and Alternative Energy Innovations
Focus: Tackling Southeast Asia’s unique energy challenges with unconventional and frontier solutions
TOP 6 OUT OF 20 STARTUPS
WIN CASH PRIZES
Programme Benefits
Cross-Border Collaboration
Unlock strategic partnerships and market expansion by tapping into a dynamic network of entrepreneurs, researchers, and industry leaders from China and Singapore.
Mentorship Support
Receive expert guidance on pitching strategies and insights from academic leaders in sustainable energy and deep tech innovation.
Funding Opportunity
All participating teams will gain exclusive access to further funding opportunities and investor networks within the programme.
Programme Timeline
Screening and Selection
Application :
15 March to 15 May 2025
Selection :
16 May to 15 June 2025
Shortlisted teams from China and Singapore will participate in an interview round to assess innovation potential and market readiness.
Shortlisted and Onboarding
Announcement of Selected Teams: :
16 June 2025
Pre-Arrival Briefing (virtual) :
30 June 2025
Connect with fellow participants before diving into the action-packed challenge.
Structured Programme
21 July to 25 July 2025
Experience a week-long, immersive programme in Singapore, packed with intensive workshops, expert mentorship, and high-impact networking opportunities.
Demo Day
21 July to 25 July 2025
Live pitch to a global panel of industry leaders and investors for funding and partnership opportunities. Winners will be announced during the award ceremony.
Post-Challenge Support
Potential to gain ongoing access to additional funding opportunities, investor networks, and strategic support even after the challenge ends.
Organisers reserve the right to make changes to any part of the programme without prior notice.
Eligibility
- Commit to the full duration of the event from 21 to 25 July 2025 . in Singapore.
- Have a fully developed concept* or be launching within six months (with incorporation within this period).
- Have at least one co-founder be a student, staff, or alumni of National University of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University of Singapore, Singapore Management University, or Singapore University of Technology and Design.
- Have incorporated your startup in Singapore, or be prepared to incorporate in Singapore within six months if selected.
Faq
Is there a fee to participate?
No, participation in the challenge is completely free.
Can I apply if my company is not incorporated?
Yes. Startups do not need to be incorporated at the time of application but must incorporate within six months if selected.
Do I need a working prototype?
A prototype is not required, but startups with a proof of concept or early-stage product have a higher chance of selection.
What is the committment?
Will funding require equity?
No, the cash prizes awarded in this challenge are non-equity grants. Winning teams will receive funding with no ownership or equity taken.
Can I apply if my concept doesn’t fit into the five critical themes?
Yes! While the challenge focuses on these themes, we welcome other innovative solutions with the potential to create impact. Final eligibility will be assessed based on alignment with the challenge’s objectives.
Organising Partners
A Powerhouse Collaboration for Startups
BLOCK71, led by the National University of Singapore (NUS Enterprise), is a global network of entrepreneurial hubs across 11 cities in 6 countries, including Singapore, Jakarta, Nagoya, Suzhou, and Silicon Valley. Since 2011, BLOCK71 has been a catalyst for innovation, helping startups scale from pre-seed to Series A and beyond through tailored programs, global market access, and industry partnerships.
More than an incubator, BLOCK71 is an ecosystem builder—connecting startups, investors, corporates, and governments to drive meaningful innovation. With a strong network of industry leaders and a proven track record, BLOCK71 empowers ambitious founders to transform bold ideas into global impact.
A trusted partner for startups, BLOCK71 is where innovation meets opportunity, shaping the future of entrepreneurship worldwide.
Tsinghua X-lab is a non-profit innovation platform fostering creativity, entrepreneurship and commercialization of scientific breakthroughs within the Tsinghua community. Established in 2013 and anchored in the Tsinghua School of Economics and Management (SEM), it collaborates with 16 departments to provide education, training and networking opportunities.
X-lab offers a 3,000 sqm innovation hub in the Jianhua Building and a 700 sqm pre-incubation space at Tsinghua Science Park, designed for interdisciplinary collaboration. With nearly 100 industry mentors, it supports start-ups through mentorship and project registration.
In 11 years, X-lab has engaged over 96,000 participants, supported 2,600+ projects and helped 280+ start-ups raise more than 19.1 billion RMB, driving entrepreneurial success and national development.
For all enquires regarding the programme, please email programmes@block71.co.
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