Vanuatu entrepreneurs to compete in global ClimateLaunchpad challenge

July 13, 2026 11:12 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Kizzy Kalsakau.

Ten Vanuatu businesses will compete in the national finals of the ClimateLaunchpad pitching competition on July 20, as local entrepreneurs showcase innovative solutions addressing climate change and environmental challenges.

The global competition is being held this year across 49 countries, including the United States, India and countries across Africa, with V-Lab participating as Vanuatu’s national organiser for the second consecutive year.

V-Lab Founder Marc-Antoine Morel said the competition aims to encourage creative thinking, innovation and the development of climate-focused businesses.

From more than 20 applications received in Vanuatu, 10 businesses were selected and have completed three days of intensive training, with further coaching underway to prepare them for the national pitch.

{p data-start=”1005” data-end=”1240”}The winning business will represent Vanuatu at the regional competition in August, competing against entrepreneurs from across Asia and the Pacific, with the possibility of advancing to the international finals in Singapore in October.

Morel said last year’s competition saw Lapita Café emerge as Vanuatu’s winner with its reef-safe sunscreen innovation, which progressed to the regional stage and was later invited to participate in the international pitch event in Vienna, Austria.

He said this year’s finalists have demonstrated strong potential, and the programme continues to provide a platform for Vanuatu innovators to present locally developed climate solutions on the global stage.