Organized by Touchstone Partners and Temasek Foundation, in collaboration with the Ho Chi Minh City Institute for Development Studies (HIDS), the Net Zero Challenge 2025 (N0C) invites climate innovators from around the world to submit solutions that can drive meaningful environmental change in Vietnam. Launched in 2023, N0C has become one of Vietnam’s largest climate-tech competitions, fostering breakthrough technologies and impactful collaborations between innovators and local partners.
About the Competition
Now in its third edition, the Net Zero Challenge 2025 offers equity-free grants totaling VND 15 billion (approximately USD 590,000), alongside tailored mentorship, global exposure, investor connections, and in-kind support. The competition aims to pilot transformative climate solutions in Vietnam through three dedicated tracks
Track 1: Renewables & Carbon Removal
Seeking solutions that promote renewable energy adoption and carbon removal through technology.
Track 2: Food Systems & Sustainable Agriculture
Focused on innovations that address the impact of climate change on food security and agriculture.
Track 3: Circular Economy & Waste Management
Encouraging scalable solutions for sustainable production, recycling, and waste management.
Who Can Apply?
The challenge is open to global teams who meet the following criteria:
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Must have developed a minimally viable product (MVP)
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Should present a clear pilot plan tailored to the Vietnamese context
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Must demonstrate potential for commercialization and long-term impact
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Should fall within technology domains, including software, AI, hardware, deeptech, agri-tech, food-tech, biotech, material science, and clean energy
Why Apply?
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VND 15 Billion in equity-free grants
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Tailored mentorship and coaching
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Global exposure and access to impact investors
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Deep engagement with Vietnam’s innovation ecosystem
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Support with pilot implementation, local partnerships, and investor readiness
Program Timeline (2025)
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July 15: Launch & Open Applications
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September 1: Application Deadline
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October: Finalist Announcement & Coaching
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November: Grand Finale & Grant Awards
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and early submission is encouraged.
Proven Track Record
In 2024, over 500 applications from 55 countries were submitted. The winners included:
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A CO₂ capture solution with 90% less carbon footprint
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An upcycled food waste packaging innovation reducing post-harvest loss by 20%
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A sustainable activated carbon product made from agricultural waste
All winners received pilot funding and support to implement their solutions in Vietnam.
How to Apply
Applications are now open, for more details visit the website and for applying fill the form.
The form includes four sections: General Registration, Project Overview, Pilot Plan, and Supporting Information.
For questions or technical support: n0c@touchstone.vc
By submitting, applicants agree to allow the review panel to evaluate their materials. Finalist pitches will be public and livestreamed.
About the Organizers
The Net Zero Challenge is co-developed by Touchstone Partners and the Temasek Foundation, with support from HIDS. It is part of the Africa-Europe Digital Innovation Bridge (AEDIB 2.0) under the EU’s Global Gateway Africa-Europe Investment package. N0C aims to accelerate climate-positive innovation through meaningful partnerships across borders.
For more opportunities, visit opportunitiesforyouth.org.