About the Program

The Cleantech Accelerator and Commercialization Program is a flagship initiative under “Integrated Approach Towards Sustainable Plastics Use and Marine Litter Prevention in Bangladesh”. Designed by UNIDO and the Department of Environment (DoE) with support from the Royal Norwegian Embassy, and in partnership with the SME Foundation, the program empowers innovators to turn their ideas into impactful, market-ready solutions.

The Accelerator provides mentorship, capacity building, and technical support to innovators working on sustainable plastics management, recycling, alternative materials, and circular economy practices. By connecting entrepreneurs with investors, industry, and policymakers, the program helps scale cleantech solutions that can reduce plastic waste and drive sustainable growth in Bangladesh.

Who Can Apply

The program is open to:
•    Startups & SMEs developing solutions in plastics recycling, sustainable alternatives, or circular design.
•    Innovators & Entrepreneurs with new ideas to reduce plastic waste.
•    Researchers & Students exploring applied innovations with commercialization potential.
•    NGOs & Community Groups promoting waste reduction and recycling practices.
•    Women-led Ventures committed to advancing cleantech innovation.

What the Program Offers

•    Capacity Building: Bootcamps, training, and mentorship with experts.
•    Prototype & R&D Support: Assistance to refine and test innovations.
•    Investor Linkages: Matchmaking with investors, incubators, and commercialization partners.
•    Visibility & Recognition: National exposure through showcases and media.
•    Commercial Pathways: Guidance on scaling up and entering the market.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, applicants must:
•    Be based in Bangladesh as an individual innovator, startup, SME, student group, NGO, or entrepreneur.
•    Present an idea, prototype, or early-stage solution that addresses plastic waste reduction, recycling, sustainable materials, or circular economy practices.
•    Be committed to actively participating in the full accelerator cycle, including bootcamps, mentorship, and pitching sessions.
•    Demonstrate potential for scalability, environmental impact, and commercial viability.
•    (Preferred but not mandatory) Teams with at least one female entrepreneur are encouraged to apply.

Applying to the Cleantech Accelerator is simple:

1.    Check Eligibility – Review the above criteria to ensure your team and innovation fit the program.
2.    Prepare Your Pitch Deck – Download and complete the sample pitch deck template provided.
3.    Apply Online – Fill out the application form and attach your completed deck.

Apply Now: Click here to submit your application