Businesses depend on nature – for water, soils, pollination and protection from hazards – yet most small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) lack affordable, practical tools to assess nature-related dependencies, impacts and risks. The Nature Intelligence for Business Grand Challenge seeks bold, user-friendly solutions that make nature intelligence accessible and actionable for SMEs worldwide.

What the Challenge is looking for

The Grand Challenge invites innovators to design tools and services that let SMEs (from rural coffee growers to small manufacturers) identify and evaluate nature-related dependencies, impacts, risks and opportunities.

What’s on offer

• $100,000+ in funding and incentives.

• Technical guidance and exposure through a global coalition led by Conservation X Labs, TNFD and UNDP, with funding from Germany’s International Climate Initiative (IKI).

• Opportunities to pilot with business partners and scale solutions into value-chain reporting.

Upcoming webinars (helpful for applicants)

• SMEs & Nature: Challenges & Opportunities — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 (times listed in challenge materials). Business leaders discuss SME engagement and lessons for applicants.

• LEAP Approach: The Foundations of Nature Intelligence — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 and Mon, Nov 24, 2025. Technical sessions on TNFD’s LEAP framework (Locate, Evaluate, Assess, Prepare).

Who should apply

Startups, non-profits, research teams, consultancies and corporate innovators building practical, low-cost nature assessment tools or processes for SMEs. Both new and existing solutions are welcome; sector- or region-specific approaches may qualify.

How to get involved

• Download the Innovator Handbook for eligibility, evaluation criteria and submission guidance.

• Interested organizations can also join the coalition or offer funding – email: natureintelligence@conservationxlabs.org.