The Ray of Hope Prize celebrates nature-inspired solutions addressing the world's biggest environmental and sustainability challenges.

Spurred by the pressing environmental and social challenges of today, a growing number of scientists, inventors, and entrepreneurs are learning from nature and reimagining the way business is done. AskNature is proud to highlight the top nature-inspired startups selected each year to participate in the Ray of Hope Prize®, a transformational program designed by the Institute to help startups cross a critical threshold in scaling their sustainable solutions. This 10-week virtual accelerator culminates in a live pitch for the chance to receive the $100,000 grand prize, with additional equity-free funding available to participating companies.

Created in honor of Ray C. Anderson, founder of Interface, Inc. and a pioneer in sustainable business transformation, the Ray of Hope Prize provides expert training and mentorship in sustainable business practices. Participants also receive guidance in science communication and storytelling techniques to amplify their reach and further support for their innovative solution. Finally, through an immersive nature expedition participants strengthen their relationship with each other and the natural world so that together we can create conditions conducive to life.