Local innovator beats 40 countries to claim top prize with algae-based fossil fuel replacement
A South African start-up has put the country on the global climate innovation map, winning the prestigious ClimateLaunchpad Global Grand Final 2025 and claiming the €10,000 (approximately R200,000) top prize at the competition’s Vienna finale.
SeaH4, a South Africa-based venture developing an algae-based replacement for fossil fuels, triumphed over competitors from 40 countries and more than 2,700 initial applications to take home the coveted title at the world’s largest green business idea competition.
A South African Solution for Global Challenges
SeaH4’s winning innovation addresses one of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges: decarbonising marine and aviation transport. Their algae-based fuel is designed to power vessels within carbon-neutral fleets and can be adapted for any combustion engine, extending its life in a net-zero CO2 world.
The South African team impressed an international jury with their game-changing approach to sustainable fuel, demonstrating how locally developed solutions can have global impact.
ClimateLaunchpad, powered by Climate KIC and supported by Bank of America and Irish Aid, helps early-stage climate innovators turn ideas into viable businesses. This year’s Global Grand Final marked the return of the in-person event since 2019, bringing together start-ups, investors and partners in Vienna under the Climate Innovation Festival.
South Africa Among Elite Climate Innovators
Competing against runner-up Chaja from Tanzania—which develops affordable electric motorcycles—and third-place OneFly from Colombia—which converts organic waste into insect protein—SeaH4’s victory showcases South Africa’s growing leadership in the cleantech sector.
The top three teams received €10,000, €5,000, and €3,000 respectively, plus tailored support, investor access, and visibility within the global cleantech ecosystem—resources that will help SeaH4 scale their innovation both locally and internationally.
Global Recognition, Local Impact
David Watt, Programme Director, ClimateLaunchpad: “Watching these teams pitch in Vienna reminded me why we do this. These aren’t just business ideas, they’re solutions shaped by people from diverse backgrounds and experiences of climate change, united by the determination to take action. From 2,700 applications to 40 finalists, the quality this year was extraordinary. As we expand to more countries, we’re not just running a competition, but building a truly global community where climate solutions can emerge anywhere.”
Brian O’Sullivan, Deputy Director – Climate Unit, Irish Aid: “Through our continued partnership with ClimateLaunchpad, Irish Aid is proud to stand with entrepreneurs from the countries most affected by climate change, helping them build solutions that the world urgently needs.”
Andrea Sullivan, International Head of Social and Environment, Global Community Opportunities at Bank of America: “We are honoured to once again partner with Climate KIC. To see the innovation demonstrated by all teams throughout this competition has been truly inspiring. These ideas, developed by early-stage entrepreneurs, respond to some of the most pressing and challenging global issues and have real potential to become practical and tangible solutions, creating a more sustainable future for us all.”