If you have an early-stage climate startup with a working product, the Swiss Re Foundation’s Shine 2027 programme is accepting applications until 15 September 2026. This accelerator and grant programme targets ventures addressing urban climate challenges, not those with only business ideas.
Application Deadline:
15 September 2026.
Tell Me About the Opportunity:
The Shine 2027 Programme, led by the Swiss Re Foundation in partnership with Climate KIC, is an accelerator and grant programme for early‑stage climate ventures tackling urban climate challenges. It supports startups that already have a minimum viable product (MVP) and are piloting or beginning commercial activity. The programme provides funding, coaching, and global exposure to help ventures scale solutions for urban decarbonization, climate adaptation, and inclusive development.
Which Sectors are Eligible?
Shine 2027 focuses on innovations that address urban climate problems, including:
- Energy transition — renewables, storage, distributed energy
- Buildings — retrofits, cooling, low‑carbon materials
- Sustainable transport — low‑carbon mobility and access
- Waste & circular economy — recycling, reuse, resource recovery
- Urban nature & land use — green infrastructure, biodiversity, food systems
- Climate data & governance — monitoring, risk intelligence, emissions tracking
Type:
Accelerator + grant programme for early‑stage climate startups.
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be 0–4 years old ventures.
- Already operating with a minimum viable product (MVP).
- Be running a pilot or early commercial activity.
- Build a scalable and financially sustainable business.
- Solve a measurable urban climate problem.
How are Applicants Selected?
Selection is based on:
- Evidence of MVP traction and pilot results.
- Clear urban climate impact metrics.
- Scalability and financial sustainability.
- Operational connection to one of the eight Shine cities.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
Startups must operate in or serve one of the eight Shine 2027 city chapters:
- Bangalore
- Bratislava
- Cape Town
- London
- Manila
- Mexico City
- New York
- Zurich
Where will the Opportunity be Taken?
Delivered locally through the eight city chapters, with global exposure via Swiss Re Foundation’s climate innovation networks.
How Many Opportunities?
Multiple startups selected per city chapter, with funding tailored to each location.
What is the Benefit of the Opportunity?
- Location‑specific grant funding (e.g., USD 30,000 in Manila, GBP 40,000 in London, CHF 55,000 in Zurich).
- Access to Swiss Re expertise in risk, strategy, and business development.
- Leadership and executive coaching.
- Support in developing scalable climate business models.
- Access to ecosystem partners and climate innovation networks.
- Potential reinvestment by Swiss Re Foundation after 12 months, based on evidence of scale.
How Long Will the Support Last?
Programme duration: 12 months, with ongoing support and potential follow‑on funding.
How to Apply:
- Prepare evidence of MVP traction, pilot results, and climate impact metrics.
- Complete the application via the Swiss Re Foundation Shine 2027 portal before 15 September 2026.