FOLLOW USThe Biomimicry Institute’s Ray of Hope Accelerator is a 6-month program to accelerate the growth of nature-inspired startups to scale systemic solutions to the world’s most pressing environmental challenges. This institute is an inclusive community taking action to solve the challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss, the sense of disconnection from nature, and the impact of the “take-make-waste” approach on nature.
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Each year, the Biomimicry Institute supports a cohort of ten high-impact nature-inspired startups from around the world, spanning Pre-Seed to Series A stages and across various industry verticals. Each selected startup receives $15,000 in non-dilutive funding and over $50,000 worth of in-kind services, which include expert mentorship, science-based storytelling support, and valuable connections to corporate leaders and mission-aligned investors. Additionally, there is an in-person Nature Retreat designed to help founders deepen their leadership skills, build community, and nurture a nature-inspired ethos.
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1. Youth Opportunities: https://m.me/j/AbZTmgEzD1UchDte/
2. Fully Funded Conferences: https://m.me/j/AbZTfhFTiPCnXf2D/
3. Full Scholarships: https://m.me/j/AbbrjbkOMM6I68Cs/
4. Paid Internships/Jobs: https://m.me/j/AbaAskb6jFFnRser/
5. Circle: https://m.me/j/AbY0vVKSPJULUnE4/
Are you a fit? The program is looking for early-stage startups that are:
- Nature-inspired: Drawing inspiration from biological processes, materials, chemistry, or systems to drive innovation.
- Impact-driven: Focused on tackling climate and environmental challenges with scalable solutions.
- Early-stage: Ranging from Pre-Seed to Series A.
This accelerator is different from the typical ones. It prioritizes the growth of founders as individuals, startup leaders, and visionary entrepreneurs. Emphasizing relationship-building, it fosters a vibrant global community of nature-inspired startups dedicated to driving positive impact. With a proven track record of 49 companies in its portfolio, this program is ready to support your entrepreneurial journey.
Apply today and take the next step in your mission-driven innovation!
Location:
OnlineBenefits
Selected startups receive $15,000 in non-dilutive funding and over $50,000 in in-kind services, including expert coaching, tailored mentorship, and strategic business guidance. They gain direct access to investors and industry leaders, expanding opportunities for funding and collaboration.
A key part of the program is a four-day immersive Nature Retreat, where participants explore biomimicry principles in a natural setting. The accelerator also offers training in essential areas, such as:
- Sustainability and Impact Strategy – Building environmentally and financially sustainable business models.
- Innovation Storytelling – Effectively communicating ideas to attract partners and customers.
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) – Strengthening team culture and innovation through inclusivity.
- Founder Mental Health and Resilience – Managing challenges while staying motivated and focused.
Startups also join a community of like-minded innovators, gaining long-term support to grow and create meaningful change.
Eligibilities
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Nature-Inspired Solutions: Startups must develop innovations inspired by natural processes, materials, or systems to address environmental challenges. Within sectors like -Chemistry and Materials Built, Environment Manufacturing and Advanced Robotics, Renewable Energy, Transportation and Mobility Food and Agriculture Conservation and Remediation Life Sciences and Med, tech, Biotechnology, Consumer Products, Cosmetics, Textiles, Blue Tech, Climate Tech
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Development Stage: The accelerator supports startups at Pre-Seed, Seed, or Series A stages. Most participants have a working prototype and secured between $250,000 and $5 million in funding, but exceptions can be made.
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Team Size: Startups should have at least two full-time team members.
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Legal Status: The startup must be legally established before entering the program.
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Program Participation: At least one founder or executive team member must actively participate in all program activities, including a mandatory in-person week and a four-day Nature Retreat.
- Impact and Innovation: Startups should aim to solve significant environmental challenges and align with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Application Process
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Startups submit applications through the online portal with details on innovation, team, market potential, and environmental impact.
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Applications are screened for eligibility and reviewed by the internal team.
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Selected semi-finalists are evaluated by an external advisory committee.
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Semi-finalists participate in a virtual interview with the internal team.
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The top 10 startups are selected to join the cohort and receive official invitations.
Application Deadline: April 26, 2025 (21 Days Remaining)
Apply nowOfficial link
