UnPollute is STEP’s flagship initiative launched in 2024 to empower women entrepreneurs building climate-focused solutions. The program champions sustainability and gender inclusion, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals to drive impact across environmental innovation.

Women are disproportionately affected by climate change due to social, economic, and caregiving responsibilities. At the same time, their empathy, resilience, and community-rooted leadership uniquely position them as powerful catalysts for inclusive, high-impact climate solutions and a thriving green economy.

UnPollute follows a comprehensive 3-part model:

• 8-Week Hybrid Incubation Program to refine business ideas
• 2-Day Sustainability Conclave to connect with ecosystem enablers
• Ongoing Support, including mentorship, market linkages, and networking opportunities

• AI-integrated Climate Solutions
• Slow/Sustainable Fashion
• Repurposing of Waste
• Solar-powered Initiatives
• Community Engagement–Driven Projects
• Sustainable Living Solutions
• Industrial Air Purification Systems

UnPollute’s inaugural edition in 2024 received 150+ applications nationwide and brought together women founders, investors, government leaders, academics, and climate experts. It is on the journey to set a benchmark as one of India’s most inclusive and catalytic platforms in climate entrepreneurship.

Women entrepreneurs who participated in UnPollute’24 received a wide range of strategic benefits, including:

• A focused 8-week incubation program equipping women entrepreneurs with the technical and soft skills needed to grow climate-resilient businesses. The program covers, but is not limited to, business model refinement, marketing and promotion strategies, and effective pitch delivery.
• One-on-one mentorship from experienced industry leaders
• Investor connections and funding opportunities, including support through the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) facilitated by STEP
• Visibility and networking through the high-profile 2-day Sustainability Conclave
  
• Access to prestigious external platforms, such as COP 29, KULA, Winpe Leadership Summit & Awards 2025, and the IVCA Green Returns Summit 2024
  
• Ongoing 6-month mentorship post-event for continued guidance

Legal and compliance support from VforHer to help formalize and strengthen their ventures

UnPollute is supported by a diverse set of ecosystem partners, including corporate sponsors, climate tech experts, impact investors, academic institutions, and government stakeholders.

Following the success of UnPollute’24, the 2025 edition is set to return with an even deeper focus on carbon neutrality, women-led green startups, and breakthrough innovation.
Applications open soon—stay tuned for updates on the timeline and selection process.

Applications will open shortly. Women entrepreneurs working on climate and sustainability-focused innovations are encouraged to apply through STEP’s official application portal.