FAQs for the Universities for Goal 13 Competition

The below information provides FAQs for the 'Universities for Goal 13' competition organized by Siemens Energy and the SDSN.

What is Universities for Goal 13?

An annual competition and award to recognize students’ talent and their critical role in creating solutions for achieving SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Who can participate?

Open to undergraduate and graduate students from universities that are members of SDSN’s global network who have been selected to participate. You can check if your university has been selected in the information about the ongoing edition.

How can I join?

If your university has been selected to participate in the competition, you will need to submit the Application Forms to the university focal point by mid December. If you wish to contact your university’s focal point, you can see their contact in the information about the ongoing edition.

How do students benefit from participating?

Selected teams will benefit from mentorship given by Siemens Energy staff, with experience in engineering, finance, compliance or project management. The winner will be awarded a USD 10,000 cash prize, and opportunities for further development and networking. All teams receive a certificate of participation.

What is the competition timeline?

The competition runs for a whole academic year, from October to September of the following year. Read the Competition Brief for a detailed timeline, including submission deadlines.

Do I receive a certificate?

Yes, all participants receive a certificate upon completion of the competition and upon demand.

Can teams have members from different SDSN institutions?

No, teams must consist of students from the same university. However, multidisciplinary teams are highly encouraged, allowing students from any faculty or discipline to participate together.

Are travel expenses covered for finalists?

Only the winning team will be invited to the award ceremony in New York. Travel expenses will be covered for one representative from the winning team.

How are winners selected?

A jury will select one finalist team from each university for the final round. The overall winner is chosen through a rigorous selection process, where teams submit a pitch video and a submission form outlining their solution. These materials are reviewed by a jury of experts from SDSN and Siemens Energy.