Call for Applications: The Liveability Challenge (TLC) 2026 – Up to $4 Million in Funding for Innovators Worldwide

Application Deadline:February 9, 2026

The Liveability Challenge (TLC) 2026 has officially opened its call for applications, inviting bold thinkers and innovators from across the globe to present transformative solutions for a sustainable future. This prestigious initiative offers innovators the chance to access up to S$4 million (USD $4 million) in funding to scale their ideas into real-world impact.

About The Liveability Challenge

Since its inception in 2018, the Liveability Challenge has grown into Asia’s largest global sustainability platform, recognized for supporting disruptive innovations that reshape industries and address urgent environmental challenges.

Presented by the Temasek Foundation and organised by Eco-Business, TLC brings together entrepreneurs, researchers, and changemakers to accelerate ideas that tackle urban and climate challenges, particularly in tropical regions. Over eight successful editions, TLC has:

• Attracted thousands of applications from around the world
• Shortlisted and incubated 54 start-ups
• Provided nearly S$14 million in direct funding
• Enabled start-ups to raise hundreds of millions more in follow-on investments

The challenge continues to empower pioneers whose solutions address pressing global issues, ensuring that innovation is matched with the financial and ecosystem support necessary to scale.

TLC 2026 Themes and Opportunities

For its ninth edition, the Liveability Challenge focuses on two urgent sustainability themes: Decarbonisation and Cool Earth. Each track seeks breakthrough innovations capable of transforming cities and industries.

1. Decarbonisation

This theme targets scalable, deep-tech solutions that can significantly reduce carbon emissions across multiple sectors. Innovations may include:

• Waste-to-resource technologies that close the loop on material use
• Renewable energy solutions that accelerate the transition from fossil fuels
• Energy efficiency innovations that cut emissions from industry, transportation, or buildings

The top two solutions in this category will each receive S$1 million in grant funding. Additionally, two outstanding projects in the Decarbonisation track may secure up to S$2 million in development funding from A*STAR (Singapore’s Agency for Science, Technology and Research).

2. Cool Earth

This theme focuses on solutions addressing climate change impacts, particularly extreme weather conditions brought on by global warming. Areas of interest include:

• Heat mitigation technologies to make urban spaces more resilient
• Nature-based solutions that leverage ecosystems for climate adaptation and protection

Like the Decarbonisation track, the top two solutions will be awarded S$1 million each in grant funding.

Why Apply?

Participating in the Liveability Challenge provides more than just financial support. Finalists gain access to a global network of investors, industry leaders, and sustainability experts, ensuring their innovations are refined, validated, and positioned for long-term growth. The challenge culminates in a Grand Finale in Singapore during Ecosperity Week 2026, where selected innovators pitch their ideas to an international audience of decision-makers and potential partners.

How to Apply

Innovators worldwide are encouraged to submit their proposals for review. Applicants can save drafts, make updates, and finalize submissions before the closing date.

Application Deadline: February 9, 2025

This is a rare opportunity for sustainability-focused innovators to secure multi-million-dollar funding, gain global exposure, and accelerate solutions that can reshape the future of urban living and climate resilience.

For more information and how to Apply, CLICK HERE