Call for Applications
SDG Sprint 2025: UNDP Impact Startup Accelerator in Korea
July 21, 2025
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
| Event | Time period |
|---|---|
| Call Deadline | 3 August 2025 |
| Document Screening Result Announcement (Top 25) | 8 August 2025 |
| Online IR Pitching | 12 August 2025 |
| Mentoring & Online Lectures | Mid-August - End of September 2025 |
| Hybrid Workshop | 28 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
- Read the guideline.
- 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.
- 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.