Startups and scaleups worldwide can apply if they meet the following requirements:

• The company was founded in August 2016 or later.
• The company is registered or in the process of registration.
• The solution has progressed beyond the idea stage and demonstrates at least a proof of concept.
• Applicants can provide evidence of a client, industrial, corporate or institutional partner, or a functioning prototype.
• Hardware solutions should generally have reached Technology Readiness Level 4 or above.
• The application and supporting documents must be in English.
• The startup may apply to only one award category.

Previous applicants from earlier editions may apply again.

• €10,000 prize: Each category winner can receive up to €10,000 in equity-free prize money.
• Global visibility: Selected startups may be featured in the SET100 publication.
• Investor connections: Opportunities to connect with investors, corporates and energy-sector leaders.
• Festival participation: Selected startups may receive free tickets to the SET Tech Festival 2027.
• Finalist benefits: The 15 finalists receive flights and accommodation for two representatives to attend the final event in Berlin.
• Industry networking: Access to partner events and potential business collaborations.

Note: Travel and accommodation support for two representatives is specifically listed for finalists, not every applicant.

Applicants must select one category.

1. Clean Energy & Storage: Renewable energy, batteries, green hydrogen, energy storage and grid technologies.
2. Digital Energy, Markets & Economy: Energy software, AI, smart grids, energy markets and digital solutions.
3. Buildings & Construction: Energy-efficient buildings, heating, cooling and sustainable construction materials.
4. Industry & Value Chains: Industrial decarbonisation, carbon capture, recycling and low-carbon manufacturing.
5. Mobility & Transportation: Electric vehicles, charging infrastructure, sustainable fuels and low-emission transport.