SVG Ventures| THRIVE and Alberta Innovates launch global Climate Challenge: Bridging agriculture and energy for a sustainable future

SVG Ventures| THRIVE, a global venture and innovation platform, and Alberta Innovates, the innovation engine of Alberta, Canada, join forces to unveil the Climate Challenge – a ground-breaking initiative aimed at accelerating innovation at the intersection of agriculture and energy to combat climate change and create a sustainable future.

With the global population projected to reach 10 billion by 2050, the need for increased agricultural production underscores the parallel necessity for sustainable energy solutions. The Climate Challenge is an international quest for innovators developing technology-enabled solutions at the ag-energy nexus, playing a vital role in securing a sustainable future for our global community.

Alberta Innovates, a leader in the Canadian innovation ecosystem, is partnering in this initiative. Together, THRIVE and Alberta Innovates aim to support local innovators and attract international start-ups to Alberta, positioning the province as a hub for transformative solutions in agriculture and energy.

Open to innovators worldwide, the Climate Challenge will culminate at Inventures, Alberta’s flagship tech conference, on May 30th, 2024. This event, hosted annually by Alberta Innovates, provides a platform for start-ups to showcase their bold ideas, connect with industry leaders, and capitalize on Alberta’s innovation advantage.

The Climate Challenge will focus on three core themes identified as high-potential areas for innovation: Advancing the biofuels value chain, on-farm energy, and water stewardship. Ten global finalists will have the opportunity to pitch their innovations live, gaining global recognition and access to significant prizes and growth opportunities.

Alberta, a rapidly growing tech-hub, stands as the epicenter where innovation meets opportunity. This collaboration between THRIVE and Alberta Innovates aims to drive innovation, creating a more sustainable and prosperous future for our global community.

Innovative start-ups from across the world are invited to apply and be part of this extraordinary journey. Visit the Climate Challenge Website to learn more about the Climate Challenge and submit your application.

″The Climate Challenge marks a pivotal moment in the pursuit of sustainable innovation. Through our collaboration with Alberta Innovates, we are not only fostering a global search for ground-breaking solutions at the ag-energy nexus but also propelling Alberta onto the world stage as a key player in climate-smart agriculture.″  said John Cassidy, Managing Director of THRIVE Canada. ″This challenge is a testament to our shared commitment to driving transformative change and creating a more resilient and prosperous future for our planet. We invite innovators worldwide to join us on this extraordinary journey, as together, we redefine the possibilities at the intersection of agriculture and energy.″

″Our planet is continually changing, creating demands of our food producers and agricultural sector.″ says Doug Holt, Associate Vice President, Investments, Alberta Innovates. ″The Climate Challenge opportunity, created by SVG Ventures | THRIVE is a way for innovators from all over to come together to solve some of the world’s most pressing problems. We look forward to the results of this Challenge and welcoming the successful teams to Inventures 2024, May 29-31, in Calgary, Alberta.″