At Innovate 4 Nature, our mission is to accelerate the transition to a regenerative economy by supporting nature-positive solutions. Our main tool for achieving this is the annual I4N Award. To ensure we support the most impactful solution providers, we assess the potential of each solution to positively affect nature and biodiversity – and to transform economic systems. This process follows a three-step evaluation.
This article explores the criteria we use in Round 2, where we validate assumptions from Round 1, assess the positive and negative impacts of the solutions’ business model, and explore key activities in more depth.
Business criteria
The first part of the Round 2 assessment focuses on the solution’s business potential. We assess the business model, financials, and funding details to better understand how the solution can create meaningful impact.
We look at how well applicants identify and describe their ideal customer profile: Who exactly are these customers, and why do they need or want this solution? This helps us understand the solution’s unique selling proposition and market relevance.
Here, we explore the solution’s competitive positioning and defensibility. Who are the main competitors? What sets this solution apart? We are also interested in potential market barriers that protect or strengthen its market segment.
Beyond customers and competitors, we expect applicants to demonstrate a deep understanding of their target market. This includes estimating the Total Addressable Market over the next five years and identifying key trends shaping the sector.
To assess long-term viability, we ask for revenue figures from the past 12 months, projections for the next one to two years, and details on expenses such as the current monthly burn rate.
We also evaluate the organisation’s current valuation, past fundraising activities, and funding requirements. This helps us understand how additional capital will support the solution’s growth.
Finally, we explore how the organisation incorporates responsible governance and social impact into its operations. We ask about potential challenges, such as respecting human rights and managing environmental and social risks, and how these are addressed in daily practice.
Biodiversity & Nature criteria
The second part of Round 2 takes a deeper look at biodiversity and nature, aiming to validate the assumptions made in Round 1.
We examine the direct or indirect links between the business model and positive nature outcomes. For instance, a company that plants native trees and ensures their survival over ten years creates a direct, measurable impact.
While positive impacts are crucial, we also want to understand any potential negative effects from implementing the solution. Applicants should describe how they identify, measure, and minimise these risks, ensuring that benefits outweigh drawbacks.
We assess how the organisation prepares for unexpected changes or challenges. How does it build resilience, manage uncertainty, and adapt to evolving conditions to remain effective over the long term?
Lastly, we explore how the solution supports circular economy principles and regenerative practices. This could include reducing waste, extending product lifecycles, restoring ecosystems, or designing processes that benefit both nature and society.
What happens next?
Based on the Round 2 assessment, up to 20 solutions will advance to Round 3. Here, applicants will pitch their solutions to a distinguished jury representing science, business, finance, NGOs, and philanthropy.
During Pitch Day on 21st October 2025, the I4N Jury will evaluate each solution against five final criteria:
If you have any questions or feedback, please reach out to us at award@i4n.ch.
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