Vietnam Opens $800,000 Net Zero Challenge 2026 for Climate Innovators Worldwide

Vietnam has opened applications for the fourth edition of its Net Zero Challenge 2026.

The contest offers a total prize pool exceeding US$800,000, with submissions accepted until August 31.

Vietnam's Push for a Greener Economy

The country has committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050 amid growing climate pressures on its agriculture and energy sectors.

Local industries face urgent needs for technologies that reduce emissions while supporting economic growth.

Selected international teams will have opportunities to pilot their solutions in Vietnam for faster real-world testing.

Opportunities for Innovators and Communities

The three winning teams will receive VND15 billion in non-equity catalytic grants, while additional investment prizes and partner support bring the total prize pool to more than VND21 billion.

Three specialized tracks cover Renewable Energy and Carbon Removal, Food Systems and Sustainable Agriculture, and Circular Economy and Waste Management.

Partner support from Touchstone Partners and Temasek Foundation links innovators with investors, enterprises, and public sector partners.

Ordinary citizens stand to gain from cleaner environments, more stable food production, and new green jobs.

The initiative builds momentum from earlier editions to scale proven climate technologies across the region.

The initiative reinforces Vietnam's ambition to attract global climate innovation and investment.