Funder: Shell
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2027 (Registration deadline)
Funding Amounts: Tailored winners’ packages may include proof-of-concept support, R&D collaboration, seed funding, a grant or strategic investment
Summary: An open innovation competition supporting energy start-ups and scale-ups developing scalable technologies and digital solutions for decarbonisation.
Key Information: Applicants must have at least two founders; submitted information is not confidential unless otherwise agreed in writing.
Description
The New Energy Challenge is an annual open innovation competition connecting global energy start-ups and scale-ups with experts, investors and potential collaborators. It is jointly organised by Shell Ventures, Shell GameChanger, Energy Tech Summit, Rockstart, Unknown Campus and YES!Delft. Finalists join an accelerator programme with training and expert support to develop their companies, validate collaboration proposals, refine product-market fit and prepare investor-facing pitches.
The programme seeks emerging technologies and digital solutions that can shape the energy sector at scale. Its published 2026 priorities focus on decarbonising and de-fossilising energy operations through efficient, scalable innovations that integrate into existing infrastructure. Winning companies may receive tailored collaboration or funding opportunities to help develop and scale their businesses.
