Microsoft launches greentech program for startups in SEA

Microsoft has partnered with Creitive, a Singapore-based digital transformation agency, to launch a greentech program for business-to-business startups in Southeast Asia that are in the seed to series A stages.

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The Microsoft Singapore GreenTech Challenge facilitates collaboration between businesses that can provide deployable sustainability solutions, which includes startups, small and medium-sized enterprises, non-governmental organizations, and corporates.

The program will provide startups with free access to tech, coaching, and support, helping them find opportunities and to avoid common pitfalls.

Shortlisted applicants will pitch their solutions to a panel of judges that include Avanade, a cloud solutions provider; EcoLabs, a greentech firm that targets the energy sector; Finlab, a startup accelerator; and NCS, a digital services provider that focuses on consulting, tech, and cybersecurity, among others.

Meanwhile, winners of the challenge will receive prizes from Microsoft that are worth up to S$350,000 (US$258,927). They will also stand a chance to deploy and scale their solutions in collaboration with corporate partners.

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The launch of the new program comes as Southeast Asia stands to lose up to US$200 billion in gross domestic product by 2030 because of climate shocks and a delay in timely action.

Investors are also cheering green investments in tech startups in the region as they associate sustainability with improved tangible financial returns. However, the region has some way to go before achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030.

Currency converted from Singapore dollar to US dollar: US$1 = S$1.35.