Empowering Caribbean Climate Innovators: The Halcyon Pre-Accelerator Program

Introduction to the Caribbean Climate Pre-Accelerator

The Halcyon initiative is revolutionizing the way early-stage climate founders operate in the Caribbean. This innovative six-month hybrid program is dedicated to supporting for-profit startups and social enterprises in developing scalable solutions for the pressing challenges of climate change. As climate issues become more urgent, the Halcyon initiative positions itself as a vital resource for regional entrepreneurs committed to climate adaptation and resilience.

What the Program Offers

Selected ventures in the Caribbean climate pre-accelerator program will benefit immensely. Each entity receives a generous US$6,000 equity-free stipend, which helps to alleviate initial financial concerns. Additionally, participants gain access to US$10,000 in Amazon Web Services credits, enhancing their technological capabilities. Beyond financial support, the program includes expert workshops and professional advisors who provide guidance, ensuring participants are well-equipped to turn their visions into reality.

How to Participate

To be part of this transformative experience, interested founders must submit an initial eligibility form by April 17, 2026. This deadline is pivotal for those looking to harness innovative solutions that address climate change in the Caribbean. The Halcyon climate pre-accelerator not only fosters innovation but also encourages a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for creating a more resilient future.

Eligibility

  • Location: Companies must be based in the Caribbean with opportunities for scale around and beyond the region.
    • Founder or company must be based in the Caribbean or building a solution primarily serving Caribbean markets.
    • Diaspora founders with active operations in the region are welcome.
  • Stage: Early-stage founders that are pre- or post-revenue.
    • Pre-seed or early seed stage.
    • Must be beyond idea stage.
    • Must have a working prototype, proof of concept, pilot, or early customer validation.
    • Revenue is not required, but traction is preferred.
  • Business Model: For-profit startups, hybrid models, and revenue-generating social enterprises are eligible.
    • Nonprofits are not eligible to apply.
  • Legal Status: Companies must be fully legally incorporated.
  • Sector: We welcome applications for all adaptation and resilience solutions addressing real climate risks facing Caribbean communities, businesses, or governments. Please see the ‘Sectors’ section for an overview of the verticals we will consider.
  • Team:
    • May apply with up to one Co-Founder.
    • Applicant must be the CEO or hold primary decision-making power.
    • Must be fluent in English (programming will be in English).
    • Must be at least 21 years of age by the start of the program.
  • Founder Attributes: 
    • Have lived experience or deep local knowledge of the region.
    • Are building solutions rooted in community needs.
    • Demonstrate long-term commitment to the Caribbean.
    • Are ready to scale beyond one island or national market.
    • Are motivated to engage international markets and investors.
  • Program Engagement: Applicant(s) must commit to participating in all residencies, program activities, events, and in-person and virtual sessions.
  • Impact: Must be developing a product and venture which contributes towards one or more of the UN’s 17 SDGs.

In addition, Halcyon scores each application based on four criteria: 1) Impact, 2) Scalability, 3) Innovation, and 4) Talent. For more on our eligibility criteria, visit our Applicants page.

For full details visit: https://halcyonaccelerator.org/programs/caribbean-climate-preaccelerator-2026/

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