Empowering the Next Generation of Climate Innovators: Inside the IRENA NewGen Renewable Energy Accelerator Program 2025
Published by IRENA
In a world where climate change is no longer a distant threat but a daily reality, innovation in renewable energy and climate technology has become more urgent than ever. Recognizing the vital role of youth in shaping a greener, more resilient future, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has once again launched its flagship initiative—the IRENA NewGen Renewable Energy Accelerator Program 2025.
Now in its third edition, this global program is more than just an accelerator; it is a launchpad for young visionaries to drive the clean energy revolution and transform their groundbreaking ideas into sustainable businesses.
What is the IRENA NewGen Accelerator?
The NewGen Accelerator is a four-month hybrid program that empowers youth-led startups, scale-ups, and growth-stage businesses working in renewable energy and climate technologies. It’s organized in collaboration with Enel Foundation and Social Alpha, two well-known partners in energy innovation and social impact.
The program focuses on equipping young entrepreneurs with the tools, mentorship, and global networks they need to scale their solutions and make meaningful contributions to the global energy transition.
Who Can Apply?
The accelerator is open to youth entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 and 35 from anywhere in the world. To be eligible:
- At least one founder must be under 35 years old.
- Two core team members must commit 16 hours per month to program activities.
- The business must operate in one of the following sectors:
- Renewable energy (solar, wind, hydro, green hydrogen, geothermal, bioenergy)
- Climate adaptation (agriculture, water, weather resilience)
- Climate mitigation (energy efficiency, transport, smart grids, decarbonization)
Why Join the NewGen Accelerator?
Young innovators often face barriers such as lack of funding, limited access to networks, and challenges in refining their business models. The NewGen Accelerator directly addresses these pain points by offering:
- Webinars and workshops led by global renewable energy experts
- One-on-one mentorship with industry leaders
- Pitching events and investment matchmaking
- Peer-to-peer learning and feedback from fellow entrepreneurs
- Visibility through the IRENA Youth Award and post-acceleration opportunities
This isn't just an opportunity to grow a business—it's a chance to become part of a global movement toward sustainability and innovation.
Program Timeline at a Glance
- April 23 – May 10, 2025: Applications open
- May 26, 2025: Selected startups announced
- May 28 – July 29: Core acceleration sessions (training, mentorship)
- August 2025: Independent work and peer reviews
- September 2025: Business linkage, pitching, and IRENA Youth Award engagement
The Bigger Picture: Youth as Climate Leaders
The energy transition is not just about technology—it’s about people. The IRENA NewGen Accelerator recognizes that the creativity, resilience, and boldness of youth are essential in solving complex climate challenges. By supporting young founders with a clear mission and scalable ideas, the program plays a pivotal role in building a more sustainable and equitable world.
Past cohorts have gone on to secure funding, expand internationally, and partner with major climate-focused institutions. For many, this program has been a defining moment in their entrepreneurial journey.
Final Thoughts: Your Time is Now
If you're a young entrepreneur with a startup that’s building solutions in clean energy or climate resilience, the IRENA NewGen Renewable Energy Accelerator 2025 is the opportunity you've been waiting for.
With climate concerns growing by the day, the world needs bold thinkers and doers. This program offers not just support but a platform to lead the change.
Apply before May 10, 2025, and be part of the movement shaping the energy systems of tomorrow.
For more information and to apply, visit www.irena.org.
