APEC InnovationChallenge
A flagship regional innovation initiative that turns shared priorities into practical solutions for productivity, connectivity, resilience and inclusive growth.
Innovating Together for a Prosperous Asia-Pacific
The APEC Innovation Journey
Beyond a
One-Off Competition
APEC Innovation Challenge is more than a competition. We bring the region’s most pressing priorities into one shared process: defining real needs, mobilising expertise and advancing solutions towards implementation.
- 01Priorities
- 02Challenges
- 03Co-create
- 04Validate
- 05Pilot
- 06Ventures
- 07Scale
Challenge tracks
Solve for What Matters.
AI for Inclusive Growth
Responsible and accessible AI that strengthens SME productivity and widens access to essential services.
Digital Trade Connect
Solutions for paperless trade, cross-border commerce, logistics and trusted digital transactions.
Green Growth & Blue Economy
Solutions for clean energy, circular economy, climate resilience, sustainable tourism and the marine economy.
Who Can Join
For innovators
- Early-stage startups and SMEs
- University spin-offs and research commercialisation teams
- Founders, engineers, developers, researchers and young innovators aged 18–35
- Cross-economy and multidisciplinary teams
For problem owners & partners
- Government agencies and local authorities
- Corporations and industry organisations
- Universities and research institutions
- Technology providers, investors and ecosystem partners
Programme journey
From Challenge to Impact
7 months, 4 phases
From an open call across the region to solutions shown during APEC Economic Leaders’ Week.
Discover
Programme launch, open call, challenge development and capacity-building activities across APEC economies.
To be announced
Develop
Regional hackathons, expert mentoring, prototype development and selection of up to 21 finalist teams.
21 teams
Deploy
Acceleration, solution validation and pilot preparation in Ha Noi and Phu Quoc; investment connection through the APEC Innovation Investment Forum.
To be announced
Demonstrate
Grand Final and Exhibition in Phu Quoc, showcasing leading solutions and pilot outcomes during APEC Economic Leaders’ Week.
To be announced
View Full Timeline
Recognition, awards & opportunities
USD 500,000
Prize & Support Pool
Recognising exceptional solutions and supporting their path to pilot, investment and regional growth.
USD 325,000 cash prizes
Up to USD 175,000 shared support
07 Competitive Awards
- Grand Prize
- USD 100,000
- Track Awards
- USD 50,000 each
- Strategic Impact Awards
- USD 25,000 each
Inclusive Innovation · Cross-Economy Collaboration · Pilot-Ready Solution
21 Finalist Teams
Up to USD 175,000
In shared support, including:
- — Expert advisory
- — Technology resources
- — Showcase access
- — Connections to pilot, market and investment partners
APEC Ventures
Connecting Innovation with Capital
At the Grand Final, the programme proposes to introduce APEC Ventures and announce 1–3 initial investment decisions or commitments for solutions meeting the relevant criteria.
Connect as an Investment Partner
Partners and Supporters
To be announced
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Three Sponsorship Tiers
Strategic Partner
Official Partner
Official Sponsor
Three forms are accepted: monetary sponsorship, in-kind sponsorship and service sponsorship.
Explore Sponsorship Opportunities
Bring Your Challenge.
Build the Solution.
Shape What’s Next.
Whether you are an innovator or a problem owner, join APEC Innovation Challenge 2027 to turn shared challenges into practical solutions for the Asia-Pacific.