The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has introduced a new initiative titled CII-ASCEND: Activate Startups in CleanTech to Strategize, Execute, Navigate & Deploy. This program aims to fast-track the development and implementation of clean technology solutions by fostering collaboration among startups, industry experts, research institutions, and investors.
The official launch took place during the CII-GreenCo Summit 2025 in Hyderabad, with D Sridhar Babu, Hon’ble Minister for IT, Electronics & Communications; Industries & Commerce and Legislative Affairs, Government of Telangana, officiating the event. The first edition of the CII-ASCEND Innovation Challenge is being launched with backing from the Sustainability, Equity and Diversity Fund (SED). The challenge presents a key opportunity for clean technology innovators to showcase their solutions, gain industry validation, and receive support for on-ground pilot deployment.
The upcoming CleanTech Innovation Challenge invites participation from a diverse group of organizations actively working on sustainable solutions. Eligible applicants include startups operating in the clean technology space, technology providers offering innovative environmental solutions, and public research institutions. Universities, technical colleges, and government-linked research centers are also encouraged to apply, along with small and medium-sized enterprises. This broad eligibility ensures that innovation from across the ecosystem can contribute to industrial transformation.
To qualify, applicants must have solutions that fall between Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 5 to 7. These are technologies that have moved beyond initial development and are ready for demonstration in real-world conditions. Projects must show the ability to scale and be commercially viable while maintaining high environmental and safety standards. The focus is on practical innovation that can transition from pilot stage to full deployment without causing harm to people or the planet.
The challenge seeks entries in a wide range of clean technology areas. These include improving energy and water efficiency, enhancing waste management systems, and deploying renewable energy solutions. Innovations related to Internet of Things (IoT) for sustainability, green hydrogen, energy storage, electric mobility infrastructure, and carbon reduction technologies are also welcomed. Additionally, proposals involving sustainable materials and circular economy practices are strongly encouraged, reflecting the need for comprehensive industrial sustainability.
Participants selected through the challenge will benefit from extensive support to bring their solutions to life. This includes funding of up to $30,000 for pilot implementation, access to a large network of industry stakeholders through the Confederation of Indian Industry, and expert mentorship in areas such as technology, business development, and sustainability. Projects will also undergo third-party monitoring and verification, and selected innovators will have opportunities to test their solutions on active industrial sites. Furthermore, they will be connected with potential investors and policymakers to explore future growth opportunities.
Key dates for the initiative are already set. The program officially launches on 12 June 2025, with applications open until 31 July 2025. Shortlisted applicants will be evaluated in August, and winners will be announced in November when pilot deployments begin. Results and outcomes of the pilots will be showcased in September 2026. This timeline gives applicants a clear path from submission to real-world impact, marking a meaningful step in India’s transition toward cleaner, more efficient industry.
Applications are now being accepted — be part of India’s movement toward a cleaner and more sustainable industrial future. Established in 2004, the CII-Godrej Green Business Centre (GBC) is CII’s specialized unit focused on advancing environmentally sound business practices.
Its work spans green buildings, sustainable manufacturing, renewable energy, green certifications, and waste reduction. To further encourage green enterprise, the Green Entrepreneurship Council (GEC) was formed in 2019 under CII-GBC to support clean technology businesses with market-ready solutions delivering measurable environmental benefits.
