SOCAR's $20K Bet on Energy Innovators

Jan de Vries · 2026-09-17

Got a technology that could solve a real problem in energy or industrial operations? If it's ready to be tested in the field, SOCAR wants to hear from you. ### What Exactly Is SOCAR WIN? SOCAR WIN – What Is Next? is an open innovation program led by SOCAR, with Viveka as the executing partner. It connects real operational needs across SOCAR with innovative technologies from startups, scale-ups, and tech companies around the world. Selected companies get to work directly with the relevant SOCAR business unit and validate their tech through a funded Proof of Concept (PoC) in actual energy operations. This isn't your typical accelerator or pitch competition. It's built around real challenges, structured testing, and measurable outcomes. The goal is to help successful technologies move from pilot validation toward potential deployment, commercial talks, and broader collaboration across SOCAR. ### What's in It for You? Here's what selected companies receive: - Up to €17k ($20k) in PoC funding, with no equity taken - Direct collaboration with the relevant SOCAR business unit and problem owner - Access to SOCAR operations for real-world pilot implementation - A structured 2-month PoC with jointly defined KPIs and regular progress reviews - Potential opportunities for broader deployment, commercial discussions, and long-term collaboration after a successful pilot "This program is designed for those who are ready to prove their solutions in a live industrial environment," says a SOCAR representative. "We're not just looking for ideas—we want technologies that can make a tangible impact." ### Who Can Apply? SOCAR WIN is for startups, scale-ups, and technology companies that have moved beyond the idea stage. You should: - Have a technology at TRL 5 or above - Have at least a working prototype or a product already deployed in another environment - Offer a solution relevant to one of SOCAR's focus areas or current challenge themes - Have a team that can actively participate throughout the 2-month PoC process The program is open to applicants worldwide, with no geographic restriction. Applications are welcomed across Production Enhancement, Efficiency & Optimisation, Business Excellence, Health & Safety, Industry 4.0, Low-Carbon Economy, Clean Energy, and cross-cutting industrial technologies. Even if your technology doesn't fit neatly into one of the listed challenge areas but solves a meaningful problem in energy or industrial operations, SOCAR still encourages you to apply. The application deadline is 22 September 2026. So, if you've got a technology that can solve a real challenge in energy and industrial operations and is ready to be tested in the field, this could be your shot. Don't miss it.