Call For Applications: UfM Energy & Climate Business Forum 2025: Deal-Making Workshops & Elevator Pitches for Entrepreneurs Advancing Green Innovation
The UfM Energy and Climate Business Forum 2025 will be held on 12 May 2025 as part of the Kuwait Sustainable Energy Week (KSEW), bringing together key stakeholders from the Euro-Mediterranean and Gulf regions to address pressing challenges in energy transition and climate resilience.
This year’s forum builds on the success of the previous edition, in collaboration with RCREEE and under the patronage of the Kuwaiti Minister of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy. The event will foster cross-regional collaboration, support private sector development, promote sustainable energy solutions, and unlock business opportunities through high-level dialogues, targeted workshops, and investment facilitation.
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Deal-Making Workshops: Unlocking Partnerships for Sustainable Energy
The Deal-Making Workshops at the 5th UfM Energy and Climate Business Forum are designed to catalyze strategic partnerships that advance the Mediterranean region’s just energy transition, climate resilience, and sustainable development. These workshops serve as matchmaking sessions, enabling stakeholders to transform innovative ideas into concrete projects through structured discussions and facilitated negotiations.
Objectives & Scope
The Call for Proposals seeks innovative solutions from UfM member countries, focusing on energy transition, climate resilience, and sustainable development. Selected proposals will be highlighted in structured discussions aimed at fostering partnerships and securing financing.
Proposals should:
- Address regional challenges in renewable energy, climate adaptation, and infrastructure resilience.
- Demonstrate feasibility, scalability, and alignment with UfM’s mission.
- Foster cross-sector collaboration and contribute to UfM’s regional sustainability goals.
Key Themes
- Renewable Energy Partnerships: Solar, wind, and green hydrogen projects.
- Climate Resilience Solutions: Adaptation projects in water management, agriculture, and urban cooling.
- Sustainable Infrastructure: Smart cities, low-carbon transport, and resilient urban planning.
- Integrated Energy-Water Solutions: Innovations in the water-energy nexus, including desalination and energy efficiency.
Eligibility & Application Process
The Call for Proposals is open to:
- Project developers: Entrepreneurs, startups, and companies aligned with UfM’s priorities.
- Investors and funders: International Financial Institutions (IFIs), private investors, and development agencies.
- Public and private organizations: Government institutions, local authorities, research institutions, and NGOs.
Selected applicants will participate in tailored stakeholder tracks, ensuring productive discussions between investors, developers, and enablers.
Proposals must be submitted by 7 March 2025, with successful applicants notified by 21 March 2025.
Elevator Pitches for Young Entrepreneurs: Showcasing Innovation
The Elevator Pitches for Young Entrepreneurs session is a dynamic platform within the UfM Energy & Climate Business Forum, designed to highlight youth-led innovation in green energy and climate resilience. This initiative provides young entrepreneurs the opportunity to present their startups and projects to an audience of investors, industry leaders, and business experts.
Program Highlights
- Pitch Presentations: Entrepreneurs will deliver 2–3-minute pitches to a panel of international experts, followed by a brief Q&A session.
- Capacity Building: Participants will receive mentorship to refine their pitches and enhance their business models.
- Networking Opportunities: Entrepreneurs will connect with investors, business leaders, and regional organizations from both the Mediterranean and Gulf regions.
Focus Areas
Selected proposals should align with key themes, including:
- Energy Transition: Promoting renewable energy technologies, energy efficiency, and low-carbon solutions.
- Climate Resilience: Addressing adaptation needs in agriculture, water resources, and urban development.
- Regional Climate Goals: Supporting sustainability initiatives, carbon reduction, and green economic growth.
Eligibility & Application Process
The Call for Proposals is open to young entrepreneurs aged 18-35 from UfM member countries. Applicants must submit a comprehensive proposal by 7 March 2025. Selected entrepreneurs will be invited to present at the Business Forum, with their costs covered by UfM.
Successful participants may also receive post-event support, including mentorship, incubation opportunities, and connections with investors and business leaders.
The 5th UfM Energy and Climate Business Forum 2025 presents a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers to collaborate on sustainable energy and climate action. Through Deal-Making Workshops and Elevator Pitches, the Forum will facilitate cross-regional partnerships, drive investment, and support innovative solutions for a greener future.
