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Shine 2027 Swiss Re Foundation Urban Climate Innovation Accelerator

Swiss Re Foundation

Selected cities including Cape Town and other global city chapters For Early-stage social entrepreneurs building urban climate solutions Deadline Sep 15, 2026

About this opportunity

Overview Shine 2027 is the Swiss Re Foundation's accelerator and grant programme for early-stage social entrepreneurs building climate solutions for cities. The 2027 edition, Shine for Cities, focuses on practical innovations that help urban communities reduce emissions, adapt to climate risks, and become more inclusive and resilient. Focus areas The programme targets urban climate solutions in energy transition, building efficiency and electrification, sustainable transport, waste and circular economy, urban nature and land use, and climate data, governance, and monitoring. Support offered Selected ventures receive grant funding, Swiss Re expertise, business and leadership coaching, support for developing scalable business models, climate innovation networks, and potential follow-on support. The programme can include an initial grant and a later pitch-linked funding pathway, with possible larger follow-on support for ventures that demonstrate scale. Who it is for Shine is for entrepreneurs who have moved beyond the idea stage. Applicants should have an MVP, pilot, or early commercial activity and should be operating in or serving one of the participating city chapters. How to apply Review the official Swiss Re Foundation Shine 2027 page and submit through the official awards portal before 15 September 2026.

Who should consider it

Who can apply - Early-stage social entrepreneurs building urban climate solutions. - Ventures with an MVP, pilot, or early commercial activity. - Ventures operating in or serving participating cities. - Solutions connected to urban climate mitigation, adaptation, resilience, or inclusion. Documents and details to prepare - Product or service summary. - City and climate problem being addressed. - Evidence of MVP, pilot, users, partners, customers, or field testing. - Impact model and climate relevance. - Business model and revenue pathway. - Team profile. - Funding use case and growth plan. Eligibility checklist - Submit before 15 September 2026. - Confirm your city/chapter eligibility. - Show a real solution, not just an idea. - Make the climate and urban resilience impact measurable.
climate, accelerator, grant, urban innovation, startup, social enterprise, resilience