Dragons' Den Application Process for Emissions Reduction Projects
We are excited to announce an opportunity for businesses with innovative project ideas aimed at reducing emissions to receive funding through the Dragons' Den. This initiative offers a total pool of $25,000 in funding, which will be allocated to the applicant/s with the most impactful ideas.
Why get involved in the Dragons’ Den?
- Access to funding for emissions reduction projects.
- Exposure for your business in the Nelson community and business arena.
- Expert advice and input from Council's climate change team and the team of judges.
- Opportunities for scaling of your project ideas.
How to Apply
Online Application: All businesses wishing to participate must complete and submit an online application. Please carefully read the application guidelines to ensure your project is eligible for funding and apply here when the grant opens. Please note that the online application form will launch in January.
Eligibility: Your project must focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Please read the application guidelines carefully before applying. Please contact climatechangeteam@ncc.govt.nz to discuss the eligibility of your project prior to submitting.
Selection Process
There is a two-step process to making a funding decision for the Dragons’ Den:
Step 1: Applications received will be assessed by a panel comprising local government officers using the criteria described in the application guidelines. The top five applications will progress onto Step 2.
Step 2: The top five applicants determined through Step 1 will be required to pitch their projects at the Dragons’ Den. They will be judged by a panel of three judges with a range of environmental, commercial and te ao Māori expertise who will choose the successful project/projects.
Dates:
Applications open: 3 February 2025
Applications close: 23 February 2025
Dragons’ Den event: 19 March 2025
Pitching Session
If you are successful in Step 1, you will have five minutes to pitch your project to a panel of three judges (Dragons) and an audience. In your pitch, you must state the amount of funding you are requesting (it can be the full $25,000 or a smaller amount), what you would use the funding for and the impact that the project would have.
Funding Details
The total available funding is $25,000, which will be allocated based on the strength of the project pitches.
Your project may receive the full $25,000 or a portion of the fund, depending on the judges' evaluation and your funding request.
Q&A Session
After each pitch, the panel of Dragons and the audience may ask you questions to better understand your project, its impact, and how you plan to use the funds.
Preparation and Support
Practice Opportunity: You will have the chance to practice your pitch with Council staff ahead of the Dragons' Den event. This session will help you refine your presentation and prepare for the Q&A.
Please contact climatechangeteam@ncc.govt.nz to discuss your project idea prior to submitting.
Funding Disbursement and Reporting
The funding will be provided to the winner(s) following the Dragons’ Den event. Winners will have 12 months to fully implement their projects using the allocated funding.
Final Report: At the end of the 12-month period, you will be required to submit a report detailing how the funds were spent, as well as the impact your project has made in reducing emissions.
We look forward to receiving your application. For any questions or further details, please contact climatechangeteam@ncc.govt.nz.