ABOUT THE I4N AWARD

The annual I4N Award is our key driver for identifying and accelerating nature-positive solutions in collaboration with partners to contribute to the restoration and regeneration of nature by 2030.

Its purpose is to recognise and spotlight high-quality solutions, promote a vibrant ecosystem and inspire transformative thinking towards a regenerative economy.

The prize

The I4N Award offers both financial and non-financial benefits worth a minimum of CHF 150,000 in total, with the aim to accelerate nature-positive solutions:

• Four cash prizes of at least CHF 25,000 each across four focus areas
• Access to the I4N ecosystem, including corporates, investors and experts
• Tailored training and mentorship opportunities
• Increased visibility through I4N channels and exclusive events

Four focus areas

Innovate 4 Nature accelerates nature-positive solutions across four focus areas, which are related to the most significant socio-economic systems in view of biodiversity loss:

• Sustainable Management of Ecosystems
• Nature as infrastructure and planet-compatible cities
• Productive and Regenerative Agriculture
• Circular nature-positive solutions

Who can apply

The application criteria are as follows:

• Cost: participation is free of charge.
• Geographies: global; organisations in or from countries at high risk of money laundering are excluded, namely the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), Myanmar and Iran.
• Form: there are no specific requirements regarding legal form, ownership structure or age of entity.
• Maturity: around pre-seed and seed stage; the minimum requirement is the existence of a business model, a business plan, a marketable pilot product, or a minimum viable product (MVP).
• Applicants: we only accept applications directly from founders and not from fundraisers. Winners from previous years cannot reapply. Finalists can reapply after two years, unless they have a new project.
• Availability: should you be selected, at least one founder or executive director must be available either in person or via video call on the Pitch Day on Thursday, 21st October 2025 in Switzerland

The application will open on 15th May 2025. You can pre-register here.

The I4N Award journey

The award journey is a multi-stage process that rigorously evaluates nature-positive solutions based on their environmental impact, business viability, and governance. It culminates in recognising and supporting the most promising solutions through an award, mentorship and a dedicated event.