MANILA – The ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE) has officially launched the second phase of its flagship accelerator program, ASEAN Sparks: Catalyse, opening applications to clean energy and climate tech startups across Southeast Asia until 20 July 2025.

Catalyse follows the success of the program’s first phase, Ignite, which engaged 40 early-stage startups through foundational workshops and mentoring. Catalyse now targets more mature startups—ranging from pre-seed to pre-Series A—working on energy efficiency, renewable energy, clean tech, and other climate innovations.

Jointly organized by ACE and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), with support from the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) and Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), the program aims to accelerate the regional transition toward clean energy.

“Many startups in ASEAN face limited access to the support they deserve, making it difficult for them to transition from early-stage development to commercial success,” said Dr. Zulfikar Yurnaidi, Acting Manager of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Department at ACE.

“Catalyse is designed to close these gaps—linking innovators with energy ecosystem stakeholders and strengthening the region’s capacity to support sustainable climate tech innovation,” he added.

The three-month accelerator, running from August to October 2025, offers:

• Extensive workshops on business strategy, market expansion, IP strategy, and social impact
• Tailored mentorship with industry experts aligned to each startup’s needs
• A pitch opportunity at the ASEAN Energy Business Forum (AEBF) 2025, where 20 selected startups will present to energy policymakers, investors, and regional industry leaders

The program not only helps startups deepen their growth strategy and refine their innovations but also provides a regional platform to scale impact and attract investment.

ASEAN Sparks: Catalyse is actively calling on startups across the region to apply and help shape the future of Southeast Asia’s clean energy economy.

Interested applicants can submit their entries through the ASEAN Sparks website until 20 July 2025.