Climate Tech Incubator: Fueling Innovation for a Greener Tomorrow

Last date to apply is
30 October, 2024

Apply now

Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India and Villgro will support social enterprises focused on creating solutions in:

Climate
action

Sustainable
mobility

The goal is to make cities more sustainable, less congested, and safer for everyone.

Program
Background

India faces severe air pollution! Of the 50 most polluted cities in the world, 42 are in India. The transportation sector alone contributes 12% to the air pollution levels. This pollution, heavily impacting health and the economy, is worsened by urban congestion, high accident rates, and long commutes.

The rapid industrial expansion and growing demand for resources are encountering serious challenges. From overburdened urban infrastructure and the scarcity of sustainable materials to the increasing waste heading to landfills, our current trajectory urgently needs a green transformation.

Imagine leveraging technology to reduce emissions, optimize energy use and resources, creating infrastructure and supply chains built on circularity principles and making our roads less congested and more safe. Together, these innovations will enhance the resilience of our cities and industries, paving the way for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable India.

Reducing waste through
innovation

Reduce air pollution

Making mobility more sustainable

Paving the way for a smarter, cleaner, and safer India

Are you making cities more sustainable, less congested, and safer for everyone?

Apply now

What we aim
to achieve

Create cleaner, greener cities

India faces some of the highest air pollution levels globally, with 35 of the world's 50 most polluted cities located here. This pollution poses serious risks to both public health and the economy. Through innovative solutions, we aim to significantly reduce pollution and make urban environments healthier and more sustainable.

Rethink resource management with a circular economy focus

In a world of increasing resource scarcity and environmental challenges, smarter use of materials is essential. Embracing circularity helps reduce waste, conserve resources, and promote sustainability throughout the entire lifecycle of products and infrastructure.

Clear the roads and boost city life

Urban decongestion aims to tackle traffic jams in India’s crowded cities, costing $14.7 billion a year. With vehicles crawling at just 17 km/hour, the impact on productivity, air quality, and life is huge.

Innovate for safer roads

Road safety is a major concern in India, with accidents costing 5-7% of GDP and making up 13% of global crashes. It's time to create safer roads, protect lives, and reduce the hefty economic toll.

Focus Areas

Sustainable
Mobility

Expected outcomes:

  • Traffic safety
  • Mobility as a Service
  • Electric vehicles
  • Urban planning
  • Emission reduction
  • Battery technology
  • Circular supply chain

Environmental
Sustainability

Expected outcomes:

  • Renewable energy
  • Waste and air quality management
  • Water conservation
  • Green infrastructure
  • Carbon capture and storage
  • Energy efficiency
  • Bio fuels
  • Sustainable packaging

What the program
entails?

Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India and Villgro will support 10 enterprises in scaling climate-tech innovations, to reduce the impact of climate change.

Apply now

The program will onboard

5

Enterprises in the incubation stage

5

Enterprises in the acceleration stage

Key info

Eligibility criteria

Enterprises with commercial pilots/early market penetration

Enterprises with commercialised products and consistent sales

Key info

Incentives

Frequently
Asked Questions

1. How can I apply?

To apply, fill out the application form available on this site, detailing your motivation, solution, and team setup. Applications are open until 30 October 2024. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for interviews with the organizing team.

2. Who can apply?

Early-stage enterprises working in the focus areas and criteria mentioned above are encouraged to apply. Enterprises in the early commercialization stage will be considered for the incubation program, while those with commercialized products and consistent sales will be considered for the acceleration program.

3. How long is the program?

The program will support selected enterprises for 12 months.

4. Will you take equity in our company?

No, the program will not take any equity in the enterprises it supports. Funding will be provided solely on a grant basis.

5. Where will the program take place?

The program will be conducted virtually, with occasional visits and meet-ups primarily in Bangalore.

6. My question is not answered here. What should I do?

Feel free to email us at mobility.villgro@villgro.org, and we’ll respond to your query within 24 hours.