The Eco-Innovation Challenge (EIC), part of the Blueing the Black Sea (BBSEA) project, is a platform designed to offer networking and expert guidance. It is now open for submissions that contribute to the development of innovative solutions for a cleaner and healthier Black Sea region.
The competition welcomes individuals, startups, NGOs, universities, research institutions, and private companies from any World Bank-eligible country. Depending on your experience and capacity, you can apply through one of two windows:
BBSEA Focus Country Window (Grant Funding):
For registered organizations implementing projects in Georgia, Moldova, or Türkiye. Grants range from USD 50,000 to 300,000, plus 12 months of technical assistance.Greater Black Sea Window (Technical Assistance):
For early-stage innovators needing mentorship and in-kind support (worth up to USD 20,000) to refine and scale their ideas.
Projects should address one or more of the following key challenges:
Agriculture & Livestock Runoff: Eutrophication caused by agricultural runoff of pesticides and fertilisers or livestock waste.
Municipal Wastewater: Eutrophication caused by under-treated or untreated municipal wastewater.
Chemical and Industrial Pollution: Contamination from industrial activities, including non-hazardous war-related pollution.
Marine Litter: Plastic and other solid waste, including non-hazardous war-related pollution.
Who can apply? The call is open to start-ups, research institutions, universities, NGOs, or innovators and entrepreneurs to provide innovative solutions for the Black Sea.
The final deadline for submissions is 14 November 2025.
To learn more about the challenge, eligibility criteria, and upcoming information sessions, please visit the BBSEA website. https://www.bbsea.project.unops.org/pages/get-involved
Next informative online session:
Session 3: Friday, 24 October 2025 – 14:00–15:00 CEST