Take part in our “Inspiring Solutions” pitch competition for a chance to win a $1,000 prize and gain free access to Quebec’s leading climate technology event.
Caisse Desjardins de Technologie is partnering with Cycle Momentum to support promising young climate tech entrepreneurs seeking to increase their visibility, access relevant business networks, and learn more about funding opportunities for their projects. We are looking for innovative solutions with a strong impact on reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, improving energy efficiency, or enhancing the circularity of our economy.
WHY PARTICIPATE?
2025 Climate Solutions Prize Festival offers an exceptional platform and showcase to connect with the Canadian climate ecosystem.
Entrepreneurs selected during the first round will receive:
- One of 10 free passes to the 2025 Quebec Climate Solutions Festival.
- Unique strategic connections and pan-Canadian networking.
- Positioning and credibility for companies selected to present to key players in the climate ecosystem.
- The opportunity to participate in an inspiring pitch competition with a $1,000 prize, hosted at Cycle Momentum’s booth during the festival
- Unique nationwide networking opportunities within the festival environment
- Increased visibility for companies during and after the Festival.
Application link:
https://cyclemomentum.acceleratorapp.co/application/new?program=concours-pitch-desjardins
WHO CAN APPLY?
- Early-stage climate tech entrepreneurial projects
- Residents or students based in Quebec
- At least one team member dedicated to the startup’s development
COMPETITION TIMELINE
STAGE 1
- Call for applications: May 13 to June 1, 2025
- Preselection process: June 2 to June 10, 2025
- Announcement of 10 finalist startups for the Festival and $1,000 pitch competition: June 11, 2025
STAGE 2
- Pitch competition at the Climate Solutions Festival: June 18, 2025
- Announcement of the winning startup on social media during the week of June 23, 2025
HOW TO PREPARE FOR EACH STAGE?
It’s a simple and quick process.
STAGE 1
Submit your application before June 1 at 11:59 p.m. by filling out the online form.
The application includes:
- Basic information about the startup
- A pitch deck following the suggested format in the form
- A short video (2–3 minutes) presenting your solution, entrepreneurial team, and motivation to enter the competition
Refer to the evaluation criteria that the jury will use!
We will contact the 10 selected startups on June 11.
STAGE 2
The final pitch competition for the 10 selected startups will be held on June 18 at Cycle Momentum’s booth during the Climate Solutions Festival.
Prepare a 3-minute oral pitch followed by a 2-minute Q&A session with a jury made up of members from Desjardins and Cycle Momentum.
The winner will be announced shortly after the jury deliberation.
EVALUATION CRITERIA
- PROBLEM: The product or service addresses a real problem.
- INNOVATIVE SOLUTION: Clear value proposition, validated with potential customers or users. The technology has unique features compared to the competition.
- MARKET AND GROWTH: Significant market size and strong growth potential.
- TEAM: Ability to develop the skills necessary for the company’s growth.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: Reduction in GHG emissions, improved energy efficiency, circularity, reduction in water pollution or resource waste.
