SMART-CDR Innovation Competition

The SMART-CDR Competition invites college and university students globally to propose innovative approaches to carbon removal through technology, policy, finance, monitoring and reporting, or community engagement models. Applications close on February 26, 2026.

Finalist teams will receive mentorship, build their networks, and gain international recognition. Finalists will also be supported to pitch their ideas at the World Energy Congress in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in October, where they will compete to win prizes. Travel stipends for invited students and cash prizes will be coordinated by the competition's sponsors.

Categories

• Technology innovation
• Policy development
• Finance models
• Monitoring and reporting systems
• Community engagement strategies

Phase 1: Design

• Up to 24 semi-finalist teams selected
• Guidance from global CDR specialists
• International recognition on Mission Innovation media

Phase 2: Develop

• Up to 6 finalist teams selected
• Mentorship from CDR experts
• Attend and present at the World Energy Congress in Saudi Arabia
• Travel stipend for at least 1 team member
• International recognition on Mission Innovation media

Phase 3: Present

• Up to 3 winning teams selected
• USD $10,000 cash prizes to each winning team
• International recognition on Mission Innovation media

Judging criteria have not been publicly specified. Evaluation may include:

• Innovation and creativity in carbon removal approach
• Feasibility and scalability of proposed solution
• Impact potential for carbon removal
• Quality of presentation and communication
• Team collaboration and expertise