The ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2026 in Sustainable Chemistry

Job Description

Applications are now open for the ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2026, a global opportunity for innovators and entrepreneurs working on solutions in sustainable chemistry and climate related technologies. The 2026 edition of the challenge focuses on Sustainable Chemistry and Electronics, following the official announcement made at the ISC3 Investor Forum during the Impact Festival.

The ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2026 is designed to identify, support, and promote innovative solutions with strong sustainability impact, commercial potential, and real world relevance, especially those addressing challenges in developing countries.

About the ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2026

The ISC3 Innovation Challenge is an international initiative that supports early stage innovations contributing to sustainable development through chemistry driven solutions. Participants gain access to funding, visibility, investor networks, and tailored capacity building support.

Innovators selected as finalists will pitch their solutions at the ISC3 Investor Forum 2026 and receive extensive preparation and exposure.

Who Can Apply

The ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2026 is open to:

• Innovators and entrepreneurs who own or represent a proposed innovation
• Individuals employed by research institutes, start ups, small or medium sized enterprises, or similar organizations working on sustainable chemistry solutions
• Enterprises with no more than 50 full time equivalent staff
• Enterprises with a maximum annual turnover of 10 million euros

The following applications are especially encouraged:

• Proposals from innovators based in developing countries
• Innovations addressing challenges in developing countries
• Applications submitted by female entrepreneurs

Enterprises that are majority owned by large corporations are not eligible, except where the innovation leads to the creation of an independent spin off.

Assessment Criteria

Applications submitted to the ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2026 will be evaluated based on three core criteria:

Innovation Level

• Originality and uniqueness of the solution
• Clear distinction from existing technologies or approaches

Business Viability

• Market potential of the innovation
• Commercial feasibility and scalability

Sustainability Impact

• Contribution to sustainability and climate goals
• Environmental and social impact of the innovation

Benefits for Selected Finalists

Finalists of the ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2026 will receive:

• Tailored support through the Global Start up Service customised support programme
• Visibility via ISC3 communication and promotion channels
• Networking opportunities through participation in the ISC3 Investor Forum 2026
• Individual and group pitch training to prepare for investor presentations
• Cash prizes awarded to top innovations

Cash Prizes

• Overall Innovation Challenge Winner: 15,000 euros
• Best Social Impact category: 5,000 euros
• Best Regional Impact or Special Impact category: 5,000 euros

Important Dates and Timeline

• Proposal submission deadline: May 4, 2026 at 0:00 a.m. CET
• Jury evaluation period: May 6 to June 16, 2026
• Finalist announcement: End of June 2026
• Finalist pitch training period: July to September 2026

Why the ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2026 Matters

The ISC3 Innovation Challenge 2026 plays a critical role in accelerating sustainable chemistry innovations that address climate change, resource efficiency, and inclusive development. By supporting early stage innovators with funding, training, and investor access, the challenge helps transform impactful ideas into scalable solutions.

Innovators working at the intersection of sustainability, chemistry, and technology are strongly encouraged to apply and take advantage of this global platform.