Start Up Energy Transition (SET) Award 2027
A long-running global competition for energy and climate-tech startups, run by Germany's national energy agency. Five category winners take equity-free prize money, and finalists get a stage at the SET Tech Festival in Berlin in front of investors and corporates.
Who can apply
- Company founded in August 2016 or later, registered or in the process of registering
- Past the idea stage with at least a proof of concept
- Must have a client, an institutional/corporate partner, or a working prototype (hardware generally TRL 4+)
- Apply to only one of the five categories; full application and attachments in English
- Open to startups worldwide, including India
What you get
- €10,000 equity-free prize for each category winner
- Showcase and networking at the SET Tech Festival in Berlin
- Media visibility through dena's international network
- Introductions to energy-sector investors and corporate partners
A long-running global competition for energy and climate-tech startups, run by Germany's national energy agency. Five category winners take equity-free prize money, and finalists get a stage at the SET Tech Festival in Berlin in front of investors and corporates. Closes 30 Nov 2026 (Central European time — submit by the evening of 30 Nov IST to be safe). Late or partially completed applications are rejected. Categories: Clean Energy & Storage; Digital Energy, Markets & Economy; Buildings & Construction; Industry & Value Chains; Mobility & Transportation. No application fee mentioned.
Quick answers
What is the last date to apply for Start Up Energy Transition (SET) Award 2027?
The deadline is 30 November 2026.
How much funding does Start Up Energy Transition (SET) Award 2027 offer?
€10,000 per category winner.
Does Start Up Energy Transition (SET) Award 2027 take equity?
No. It is non-dilutive — founders keep full ownership.
Who can apply for Start Up Energy Transition (SET) Award 2027?
Company founded in August 2016 or later, registered or in the process of registering; past the idea stage with at least a proof of concept; must have a client, an institutional/corporate partner, or a working prototype (hardware generally TRL 4+); apply to only one of the five categories; full application and attachments in English; open to startups worldwide, including India.
Who runs Start Up Energy Transition (SET) Award 2027?
dena – German Energy Agency, open to applicants worldwide including India.
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