SDG Sprint 2025: UNDP Impact Startup Accelerator in Korea

Call for Applications

July 21, 2025
Promotional graphic for SDG Sprint, featuring a blue background and global map illustration.

 

Programme overview

Led by the UNDP Seoul Policy Centre as part of Youth Co:Lab, co-led by UNDP and Citi Foundation, SDG Sprint supports impact startups by providing access to global networks and industry expertise, aiming to amplify impact-focused entrepreneurship across the Asia-Pacific.


Eligibility

While there are no strict limitations on revenue or incorporation date, applicants should:

  • Offer a Green or Digital solution aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
  • Be beyond the ideation stage, with a tangible or intangible solution already in place — ideally at least a working prototype or pilot-tested
  • Have a key leader (founder, co-founder, or legally registered representative) who holds the nationality of an Asia-Pacific country

 

Key benefits

  • Networking with experts from Korea and around the Asia-Pacific
  • Exchange with startups across the Asia-Pacific
  • Award grants
  • In-depth mentoring, IR coaching and impact measurement education
  • Demo Day in Seoul with VCs, impact investors, UN agencies and stakeholders
  • Potential follow-on programme and investment review opportunities

 

Key dates

EventTime period
Call Deadline3 August 2025
Document Screening Result Announcement (Top 25)8 August 2025
Online IR Pitching12 August 2025
Mentoring & Online LecturesMid-August - End of September 2025
Hybrid Workshop28 August 2025
Demo Day (in Seoul)Late September 2025

*Workshop and demo day dates are subject to change. 

*The default language of all programmes is English.

*Korean-English simultaneous interpretation will be provided on Demo Day.

 

How to apply

  1. Read the guideline.
  2. Please prepare the following two documents:
    • [Required] IR Deck (English): Submit a single PDF file following the IR Deck Guide. This will be used for the Online IR Pitching if shortlisted.
    • [Optional] Financial Status: Use the attached form. This is optional but will help reviewers better assess your business maturity and growth potential.
  3. Click on the “Apply” button, fill out the requested information on the form, and submit with attached documents (IR Deck, etc.).

*Notification will be sent via email to successful applicants (25 teams) only.

Apply now