New Delhi, May 6 (KNN) With the view to promote clean technology innovations amongst Indian MSMEs, entries have been sought from small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as well as emerging start-ups for the third Global Cleantech Innovation Programme (GCIP).

GCIP is run by United Nations Industrial Development organization (UNIDO) in association with world's largest clean technology accelerator (Cleantech Open USA). The Ministry of MSME in partnership with UNIDO launched GCIP in 2013 for promoting Innovations in the Indian SMEs in clean technologies. 

The platform envisages providing SMEs and entrepreneurs the facilitation needed to launch and create successful and sustainable clean technology ventures and start-ups.

An ecosystem approach will be followed whereby a common platform will be established; policy framework will be strengthened; and local capacity will be built to forge close partnership between government, academia, business and various key stakeholders including state and non-state players.

The Programme is focused on enhancing both emerging Cleantech startups and the local entrepreneurial ecosystem and policy framework.

The interested Indian SMEs, as well as emerging startup and entrepreneurs will have to send their entries by May 15, 2016.

The entries for the SMEs will be made under the four clean technology areas: Energy Efficiency; Renewable Energy; Waste to Energy; and Water Efficiency.

Special Recognition and mentorship will be given to Women Entrepreneurs in Clean Technology.

All submissions will be adjudicated by a panel (Round 1 Judging) representing business, industry, government, academic and R&D fraternity who will meet 30 semi-finalists. The 30 semi-finalists will be attending mentoring programme and business clinics from June to August 2016.

The second round of adjudication (Round 2 Judging) will take place in September 2016, from which three finalists will be selected. The selected three finalists will receive assistance in connecting with critical stakeholders and will be supported in preparing their presentation for the Global Forum. (KNN Bureau)