The Eco-Innovation Challenge (EIC)

The Eco-Innovation Challenge (EIC) is a flagship initiative under the "Blueing the Black Sea" project, supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the World Bank, and implemented by UNOPS. Its objective is to combat pollution in the Black Sea by funding innovative environmental solutions. The EIC invites organizations and innovators worldwide to propose actionable eco-innovations addressing critical pollution issues, particularly in Georgia, Moldova, and Türkiye. The BBSEA Focus Country Window is the grant pathway within the challenge and targets implementation-ready projects seeking substantial financial and technical support. Through the BBSEA Focus Country Window, selected projects can receive grants ranging from USD 50,000 to USD 300,000. These funds are designated for direct implementation activities and are supported by a formal Grant Support Agreement with UNOPS. Eligible expenses include personnel, equipment, materials, operational costs, minor infrastructure, training, and travel. In addition to funding, grantees are paired with an international accelerator to receive 12 months of tailored technical support aimed at improving project execution, regulatory navigation, marketing, and management effectiveness. Eligibility for this grant window requires applicants to be legally registered entities with the legal and financial capacity to manage a grant. While global applicants are encouraged, implementation must take place in one of the three focus countries: Georgia, Moldova, or Türkiye. Applications from consortia are allowed, provided a lead entity is designated to receive and manage the grant. Demonstrating co-financing or in-kind contributions is optional but may strengthen the application. The application process begins with the submission of an Expression of Interest (EOI) by November 30, 2025. After an initial screening, up to 25 applicants per window will be invited to refine their proposals through an orientation and accelerator-led development phase from December 2025 to March 2026. Finalists will participate in a “Shark Tank” pitch event between April and June 2026, where a jury will select up to 10 grantees for the Focus Country Window. These grantees will launch their 18-month projects starting in July 2026. Projects must address one of four priority pollution problems in the Black Sea: agricultural runoff, municipal wastewater, chemical and industrial pollution, or marine litter. The EIC emphasizes real-world impact and scalability. Selected grantees are expected to deliver demonstrable results and develop compelling case studies to influence future adoption and investment. This challenge offers a unique platform for organizations to showcase their environmental innovations and to catalyze transformation in the region. The EIC’s selection process is designed to support both early-stage concepts and ready-to-implement solutions. The BBSEA Focus Country Window represents a strategic opportunity for organizations positioned to make immediate, measurable environmental improvements with the backing of financial and technical support. Grantees retain full intellectual property rights to their innovations.

Use Annex A form for completeness; implementation plan and realistic budget are key success factors; show co-financing if available.