This category recognises innovative start-ups and scale-ups developing technologies, services, and models that reduce emissions and accelerate the climate action. The emphasis is on climate integration, innovation, measurable impact, and business viability.
Assessment takes place in two stages, ensuring only credible and impactful businesses are considered for recognition.
To move forward, enterprises must meet basic eligibility checks:
Entity eligibility – Must be a recognised business type (e.g., Pvt Ltd, LLP, Partnership, Sole Proprietorship, Registered Social Enterprise).
Business stage defined – Must identify as either a start-up or a scale-up.
Alignment with eligible climate areas – Must align with one or more areas such as renewable energy, mobility, circular economy, sustainable agriculture, or waste management.
Completeness of submission – All mandatory questions must be filled.
Evidence of operation – The enterprise must already be established and not remain only as a planned idea.
Only businesses meeting these requirements proceed to Stage 2 for detailed scoring.
| Applications that pass the first stage are scored across six weighted criteria using a Likert scale (1–3–5), where 1 = weak, 3 = moderate, 5 = strong. |
| 1. Climate action integration (20%) |
| Focus: How well climate goals are embedded in the business strategy, operations, and decision-making. |
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| 2. Innovation and uniqueness (15%) |
| Focus: Distinctiveness of technology, product, or business model; its potential to disrupt conventional practices. |
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| 3. Measurable climate impact (25%) |
| Focus: Evidence of environmental outcomes such as GHG reductions, resource savings, or resilience. |
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| 4. Scalability and market potential (15%) |
| Focus: The potential for replication across geographies or industries, and clarity of pathways for scaling. |
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| 5. Business maturity and viability (15%) |
| Focus: Financial sustainability, growth trajectory, and operational maturity. |
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| 6. Leadership and collaboration (10%) |
| Focus: The enterprise’s role in sectoral leadership, partnerships, and collaborations that strengthen the ecosystem. |
