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 Round 3 – the Jury Pitch Day – and explains how it works, who takes part, and what our jury looks for.
From Shortlist to Finalists
In 2025, I4N introduced an additional step between the shortlist and the finals to strengthen due diligence and ensure closer connections with applicants.
This process ensures that only the most compelling and well-prepared ventures advance to the final stage. The finalist selection is expected in early October 2025.
How the Jury Pitch Day works
On 21 October 2025, the finalists will present their solutions to our renowned I4N Jury. Each team must be represented by at least one founder or executive director, either in person in Geneva or virtually.
Our jury brings together leading experts from finance, science & academia, NGOs & philanthropy, government, and business. This diversity ensures that each solution is evaluated from a multi-dimensional perspective, reflecting the complexity of transforming systems for nature and society.
The goal of the Jury Pitch Day is to evaluate the up to 16 finalists through their pitches and previously submitted materials. Based on the Jury evaluation, I4N will select the winners of the I4N Award 2025 – who will be announced during the I4N Award Ceremony in January 2026.
In addition to the I4N Award 2025 winners, the recipients of the Wyss Academy for Nature Grant as well as the Honorary Mentions will be selected.
What the Jury looks for
In Round 3, the jury evaluates each finalist against five core criteria, scoring them on a scale of 1 to 5.
After Jury Pitch Day
The winners of the I4N Award 2025 will be formally announced during the Nature Lunch in Davos on 22 January 2026.
Beyond the Award, I4N remains committed to accelerating not only the winners but also the broader pool of finalists. In 2026, we will connect them with corporates, investors, foundations, and family offices, and provide visibility through our channels and exclusive events.
Through this ongoing support, we aim to help these ventures scale their impact and contribute to a regenerative, nature-positive economy.
Do you have any questions or feedback? Reach out to us at award@i4n.ch.
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