The building and construction sector is responsible for around 39 percent of energy- and process-related CO2 emissions, according to the EIT. About 11 percent of this is attributable to the production of building materials and products such as steel, cement, and glass. The sector therefore has great potential for circular innovations to achieve the goal of a carbon-free building stock by 2050. The EIT's Built Environment Circular ClimAccelerator EIT Climate-KIC is therefore looking for advanced startups that close the loop for the built environment through reuse, sharing, leasing, repair, renovation, upcycling, or recycling of resources. The program focuses primarily on highly efficient construction, water and waste management infrastructure, building materials, transport and logistics, renewable energies, Industry 4.0, and new circular economy models.
To participate in the program, a startup team must consist of at least two people who together own 75 percent or more of their company and work full-time on their idea. The startup must be registered in the EU and no older than five years. Furthermore, it is expected to have at least an MVP or prototype, although initial sales are preferred. Deadline for the Application is September 19th.
What does the Built Environment Circular ClimAccelerator have to offer?
The accelerator's program is divided into two parallel phases. One part, called Phase 1, consists of two months focused on business fundamentals—i.e., turning climate-friendly inventions into viable business models. Participants attend regular online courses covering topics such as fundraising, marketing, and pitching. Each team can also apply for grants of up to €3,000. Up to 25 startups can participate.
Phase 2, on the other hand, lasts three months and focuses on translating business plans into concrete value propositions. The startups' business models are to be validated by real-life customers and the next step towards market readiness or market entry is to be prepared. Phase 2 also offers higher grants totaling €15,000, but is subject to the condition that equity is transferred to the EIT Climate KIC. A maximum of 15 startups can participate.
More information and the possibility to register is available here.
