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. There is growing interest in climate tech companies, with significant opportunities for innovative technologies to address environmental challenges and drive market growth. We are looking for climate tech solutions and innovative technologies with a strong impact on combating climate change, reducing emissions, reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, improving energy efficiency, or enhancing the circularity of our economy.

Introduction to Climate Tech

Climate tech, or climate technology, represents a rapidly growing field dedicated to developing innovative solutions that address the urgent challenge of climate change. At its core, climate tech refers to a broad spectrum of technologies and approaches designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, capture carbon from the atmosphere, and accelerate the shift toward a low-carbon economy. This dynamic industry spans multiple sectors, including renewable energy, energy storage, and carbon capture, all working together to combat climate change and decrease our reliance on fossil fuels.

Climate tech startups and companies are leading the charge by creating breakthrough technologies that not only lower energy consumption but also promote sustainable practices across industries. From advanced solar panels and energy-efficient systems to cutting-edge carbon capture solutions, these organizations are pivotal in driving the transition to clean energy and achieving net-zero emissions. By investing in and adopting climate tech, we can significantly reduce our environmental impact, support the development of a circular economy, and help ensure a more sustainable future for generations to come.

As the climate crisis intensifies, the role of climate tech becomes even more critical. These technologies and the companies behind them are essential for achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions and building resilient, sustainable communities. Whether through innovative energy solutions, smarter industrial processes, or new ways to capture and store carbon, climate tech is at the forefront of the global effort to combat climate change and create lasting positive change for our planet.

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, including opportunities to connect with investors.
  • Positioning and credibility for any company 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.

 

Apply here

 

Who Can Apply? (Including Climate Tech Startups)

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.

To strengthen your application, consider seeking technical assistance or conducting research to ensure you are well-prepared for each stage.

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
  • Clear reporting on your environmental impact and sustainability metrics, demonstrating transparency and progress towards your goals

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.
  • Enviromental Impact: Reduction in GHG emissions, improved energy efficiency, circularity, reduction in water pollution or resource waste. Solutions and sectors evaluated include the built environment, agriculture, renewable energy technologies, energy storage technologies, direct air capture, carbon removal, precision agriculture, green hydrogen, electric vehicles, land use, and the agriculture sector, all of which present significant opportunities for impactful decarbonization and sustainability.